Cristiano Ronaldo claimed first place in the all-time Ballon d’Or fan poll organized by France Football, edging out Lionel Messi and a field of football legends to top the commemorative voting for the trophy’s 70th anniversary.
Fan Voting Results and Standings
The magazine announced the results two days after the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, placing Ronaldo’s 2008 award at the summit of the rankings. Lionel Messi took second place with his 2012 win, while Ronaldo’s 2017 victory rounded out the top three.
The next two positions in the poll went to Messi’s 2023 award and Ronaldo’s 2016 win. Between them, the two players account for 13 Ballon d’Or trophies across their careers.
Manchester United Precedent and 2008 Campaign
Ronaldo’s top-ranked 2008 victory followed a dominant campaign at Manchester United under manager Alex Ferguson. During that season, the Portuguese forward netted 42 goals in all competitions, including 31 in the Premier League, helping the club secure both the league title and the Champions League.
Ronaldo vs. Messi. Again. And the internet still can’t agree. 🐐⚽Cristiano Ronaldo has won a fan vote for the greatest Ballon d’Or-winning season of all time.The winner? His legendary 2008 campaign with Manchester United.That season, Ronaldo scored 42 goals, won the…
Voting Process and Participation Numbers
The online poll ran from October 1 to October 27 on the official Ballon d’Or website, featuring 10 legends who won the prestigious award at least twice. Voters paid one euro per vote and could cast multiple ballots, meaning the outcome reflects popular fan sentiment rather than the professional criteria of the traditional Ballon d’Or.
France Football reported that 5,009 individuals voted two or more times. Within that group, 44 participants cast between 10 and 26 votes, 300 voted between five and nine times, and 4,665 submitted between two and four votes.
Status of the Poll
The publication clarified that the BOAT-award is neither an official prize nor a version of the Super Ballon d’Or. Nonetheless, the result carries significance as a measure of fan appreciation for the outstanding achievements of football legends throughout their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Poll
Which players were eligible for the all-time Ballon d’Or fan vote?
The poll featured 10 legends who won the prestigious award at least twice.
How many total votes were cast multiple times?
France Football stated that 5,009 participants submitted two or more votes during the October voting window.
Is this fan poll an official France Football honor?
No, the magazine explicitly stated that the result is neither an official prize nor a version of the Super Ballon d’Or.