India, Sept. 8 -- The 70th Ballon d'Or ceremony is set to take place in October, when the top individual performer from the 2025/26 season will be crowned. The prestigious award remains one of the biggest honours in football, with the sport's finest players competing for the iconic golden trophy. Last year's winner, Rodri, could once again feature among the contenders after playing a key role in Spain's World Cup triumph this summer.

The 2026 ceremony will also carry extra significance as it marks the award's 70th edition and will be staged at a different venue from the usual location to celebrate the milestone. With this year's nominees due to be announced this week, anticipation is building over which stars will make the shortlist. Bef...