Ballon d’Or 2016: Full Nominations, Top Contenders, and Winner

Every year, the Ballon d’Or sparks heated debates, passionate discussions, and a little healthy rivalry among football fans worldwide. 2016 was no exception. From record-breaking goals to continental glory, the 2016 season was packed with moments that made the race for football’s most prestigious individual award one of the most exciting in recent memory.

So, who made the cut, who stood out, and who ultimately took home the trophy? Let’s break down the 2016 Ballon d’Or nominations, spotlight the top contenders, and take a closer look at the cream of the crop.

Ballon d'Or 2016 Winner - Ronaldo

It was a year to remember for Cristiano Ronaldo. The Real Madrid superstar clinched the 2016 Ballon d’Or, marking his fourth win. Ronaldo’s phenomenal year included winning the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid and leading Portugal to their first-ever European Championship triumph, cementing his status as one of football’s all-time greats.

Top Contenders

While Ronaldo’s achievements were hard to beat, the 2016 Ballon d’Or shortlist was stacked with world-class talent:

• Lionel Messi – The Barcelona maestro continued to dazzle with his incredible dribbling, goalscoring, and playmaking ability.

• Antoine Griezmann – The French forward’s heroics for Atlético Madrid and his starring role in France’s run to the Euro 2016 final earned him a place among the elite.

• Gianluigi Buffon – A legend between the sticks, Buffon guided Italy to the Euro 2016 final and showcased why he remains one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation.

• Neymar Jr – The Brazilian forward lit up La Liga and Champions League for Barcelona, blending flair, speed, and jaw-dropping skill.

Player Spotlight: Top 5 Nominees

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal / Real Madrid)

2016 was Ronaldo’s year. Champions League glory, Euro victory, and a staggering goals tally put him head and shoulders above the rest. His mix of power, precision, and leadership made him unstoppable.

2. Lionel Messi (Argentina / Barcelona)

Messi’s magic never takes a break. Even without major trophies for Argentina, his domestic form and relentless consistency kept him firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation.

3. Antoine Griezmann (France / Atlético Madrid)

Griezmann was the heartbeat of France’s Euro 2016 campaign, scoring crucial goals and providing creative brilliance. Atlético Madrid’s talismanic forward was also key in Europe’s elite competition.

4. Gianluigi Buffon (Italy / Juventus)

Buffon, already a football legend, proved age is just a number. His commanding performances helped Italy reach the Euro 2016 final, reminding fans why he’s considered one of the greatest goalkeepers ever.

5. Neymar Jr (Brazil / Barcelona)

Brazil’s star man combined flair with productivity in La Liga and Europe, dazzling fans with dribbles, assists, and memorable goals. His partnership with Messi and Suarez was electric.

Ballon d’Or 2016: Top 15 Nominees

The 2016 Ballon d’Or was a celebration of not just individual brilliance but also moments of footballing history—Ronaldo lifting Portugal, Griezmann dazzling at the Euros, and Messi continuing his domestic domination. Every nominee deserved their place, but Ronaldo’s trophy was a fitting reward for a year of sheer excellence.

If you want to relive some of these iconic moments, check out the highlight reels from Euro 2016 and the 2015–16 Champions League, because this was truly a golden year for football fans around the world.