In an interview with BBC Sport, the Polish striker stated that Barca currently boasts several contenders deserving of the prestigious individual award. "There are Barca players capable of competing for the Ballon d'Or. This team has demonstrated its strength and they deserve recognition," Lewandowski said.
However, the 37-year-old questioned the award's credibility, organized by France Football magazine, compared to FIFA's "The Best" award. "I don't know which award is more important," the Barca striker added. "FIFA's The Best is more impartial. The Ballon d'Or is commercialized."
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Lewandowski (left) and Messi at the Ballon d'Or ceremony on 29/12/2021 at the Chatelet Theater, Paris, France. Photo: Marca |
Lewandowski (left) and Messi at the Ballon d'Or ceremony on 29/12/2021 at the Chatelet Theater, Paris, France. Photo: Marca
Lewandowski expressed regret over the 2020 Ballon d'Or cancellation due to Covid-19. At the time, he had achieved a historic treble with Bayern Munich before completing a sextuple in 2021. "No one understood that decision, but football is sometimes linked to politics," Lewandowski said with a wry smile.
Lewandowski secured the Silver Ball in 2021, behind Lionel Messi. It was his only appearance in the Ballon d'Or's top 3. In contrast, he won The Best award twice consecutively, in 2020 and 2021.
The Ballon d'Or is chosen by journalists representing national teams in FIFA's top 100. The Best award relies on votes from national team captains, coaches, journalists, and fans. Having been awarded since 1956, the Ballon d'Or is considered more prestigious. The Best award debuted in 2016.
Before Lewandowski, Cristiano Ronaldo also publicly criticized the Ballon d'Or as contrived and not accurately reflecting player performance. "I don't believe in the Ballon d'Or, because I know the effort made behind the scenes," the 40-year-old stated before the 2025 UEFA Nations League final.
The Ballon d'Or has sparked recent controversy, notably last year when Rodri won over Vinicius. The entire Real Madrid team disregarded the award and has not mentioned it since. A continued boycott by Real this year is possible.
The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony will take place at the Chatelet Theater in Paris, France, on the evening of 22/9. Ousmane Dembele is favored to win due to his treble with PSG. Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Mohamed Salah are also strong contenders.
Hoang An (Yahoo)
