“Only countries ranked in the top 100 of the FIFA World Rankings will be eligible to vote,” the magazine stated, emphasizing its commitment to a more refined selection process.
France Football magazine has introduced a revamped voting system for the 2025 Ballon d’Or award, limiting eligibility to countries ranked within FIFA’s top 100. The move is aimed at enhancing the award’s credibility and ensuring that voting nations have established football reputations and active international participation.
“Only countries ranked in the top 100 of the FIFA World Rankings will be eligible to vote,” the magazine stated, emphasizing its commitment to a more refined selection process.
Under this updated rule, 22 African nations are now eligible to vote, highlighting the continent’s growing influence in global football.
Ballon d’Or: The 22 African Countries Eligible to Vote
Morocco
Senegal
Egypt
Algeria
Ivory Coast
Nigeria
Tunisia
Cameroon
Mali
South Africa
DR Congo
Burkina Faso
Cape Verde
Ghana
Gabon
Guinea
Angola
Zambia
Uganda
Equatorial Guinea
Benin Republic
Mozambique
This change signals a recognition of Africa’s rising football stature and aims to reflect more competitive and relevant global input in award decisions.