Which country has the most nominations for the men's Ballon d'Or?

2,229. That is the total number of men's Ballon d'Or nominations since the award was created in 1956. But ranking countries on that basis would not be fair, since until 1995, the trophy was reserved for the best European player. Thirty globalised editions and 1,118 nominations later, the data reveals a ranking that is both compelling and, at times, surprising.

First and foremost, France leads the way. Les Bleus top the standings with 151 men's Ballon d'Or nominations since 1995. Karim Benzema (12 nominations), Zinédine Zidane (11), Thierry Henry (9) and Kylian Mbappé (already 8 nominations at the age of 27) prove that the country produces world-class talent with every generation. Not to mention Ousmane Dembélé, who won the Ballon d'Or at his very first nomination, in 2025.

Argentina and Portugal: more than Messi and Ronaldo

In second place, a perfect tie between Brazil and Spain. Both nations have accumulated 105 nominations, and share a common strength: the collective. No Brazilian or Spanish player has reached 10 nominations, yet many have earned six or more — Raúl (10), Ronaldo and Neymar (9) lead the way alongside Roberto Carlos, Iker Casillas and Iniesta (8), Xavi (7), Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Kaká, David Villa, Cesc Fàbregas and Sergio Ramos (6).

Not far behind, Italy takes fourth place with 99 nominations. Gianluigi Buffon (11 nominations) and Paolo Maldini (9), both defensive players by nature, are the country's frontrunners. England and Germany follow, level on 83 nominations each.

Three nations tied at 10th

Argentina (70) and Portugal (65) come next, driven in large part by Lionel Messi (16 nominations) and Cristiano Ronaldo (18) — but not only. Luis Figo (10), Gabriel Batistuta and Sergio Agüero (7) are proof that both nations contribute collectively.

Behind the Netherlands (62 nominations, with Patrick Kluivert, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Arjen Robben each earning 6), three countries stand out: Belgium, Croatia and Uruguay with 20 nominations.