September 17 – UEFA and Groupe Amaury, co-organisers of the Ballon d’Or since last year, have announced Qatar Airways as the first-ever presenting partner of the 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony, with the winner of football’s most prestigious individual accolade set to be unveiled on September 22 in Paris.
PSG forward Ousmane Dembele is the bookies’ favourite to claim the award thanks to his outstanding contribution to the European Champions’ six-trophy haul – but it’s really a four-way split between the Frenchman, Barcelona duo Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, with Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah also in the picture after a record-breaking season in the Premier League.
The ceremony has already been thrust into early controversy as Real Madrid have hinted they will not be attending – still sulking from the snub of Vinicius Junior in favour of Rodri at last year’s ceremony.
Qatar Airways is already a recognised partner across UEFA competitions, including this season’s Champions League and last summer’s EURO. Both entities say that this new role at the Ballon d’Or Ceremony further strengthens the relationship between the two – hinting that we can expect more in the near future.
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin said: “The Ballon d’Or is more than an award – it is a celebration of inspirational talents who define football and its history. We are honoured to welcome Qatar Airways as the first presenting partner of this iconic ceremony. Together, we celebrate not only a passion for the beautiful game and excellence without borders, but also the profound value of bringing the world closer together.”
No value was given for the one-edition sponsorship.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We are delighted to become the first ever Presenting Partner of the Ballon d’Or Ceremony as we celebrate the legends who inspire generations.
“This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, and by aligning Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline with the World’s Best Footballers, we are reinforcing our brand’s dedication to being the very best in every arena we enter.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at [email protected]