Ballon Dor 2025.webp
The Digest:
The glamour of football's biggest individual award is overshadowed by controversy and strategic absence. Barcelona midfielders Pedri and Robert Lewandowski will skip the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris, a decision fueled by a leaked list of winners and a desire to focus on club commitments over personal accolades.

Key Points:
  • Pedri and Lewandowski will not attend the Monday night event in Paris.
  • The decision follows a viral leak of the alleged Ballon d'Or top 10 finishers.
  • Pedri, reportedly sixth on the list, opted to focus on recovery and fitness.
  • Lewandowski is dedicating his time to preparing for Barcelona's next match.
  • The leaked list claims teammate Raphinha won with 800 points.
  • Ousmane Dembélé and Lamine Yamal are reportedly second and third.
  • Coach Hansi Flick is expected to attend as a Coach of the Year nominee.
This move underscores a shifting priority in elite football, where the relentless club calendar often trumps global recognition, and where leaks can strip the ceremony of its suspense.

Sources: Soccernet, Goal