All you need to know about the FIFA gala, paving the way for its sixth edition in 2022 and the subsequent ceremonies.
The Best awards recognize the season’s standout performers, with separate honors for men and women. As the sixth ceremony approaches, scheduled for Monday, February 26, 2023, this page provides a complete overview of the football gala and what it represents in the sport’s yearly calendar.
HISTORY OF THE BEST AWARD: WHO INVENTED IT
The Best is a prestigious prize given to the player who has shone the brightest over the recent campaign. The award originated after FIFA ended its collaboration with the French publication France Football. From 2010 to 2015, the Ballon d’Or merged the best male footballer in the world with the annual France Football recognition, but differing viewpoints eventually led to the split and the creation of two distinct awards.
In addition to naming the best player, the ceremony also presents trophies to the top coach and the best goalkeeper, with parallel honors for both genders. There is also recognition for the season’s best XI, highlighting the most outstanding eleven performers across positions.
SINCE WHEN IS THE BEST DELIVERY?
Historically, The Best prize was introduced in 2016, marking a fresh chapter in how football honors are awarded. Cristiano Ronaldo became the inaugural recipient, setting a high standard for the award’s prestige. Since then, the gala has continued annually, though the most recent edition was held virtually due to global restrictions, underscoring the event’s adaptability and enduring importance in the football world.
HISTORY OF THE BEST WINNERS
The Best has been presented on five occasions, with Cristiano Ronaldo standing out as the most decorated player, having claimed two trophies. Other global stars, such as Lionel Messi and peers across eras, have chased the goal of matching or surpassing Ronaldo’s tally, underscoring the fierce competition that defines the ceremony. The full list of winners reflects the evolution of talent across different generations and regions, illustrating how the award captures peak performances year after year.
Note: This overview consolidates the major milestones and recognitions associated with the Best award, offering a concise record of its impact on players, coaches, and goalkeepers across both genders.
Source: Goal