Markus Babbel criticizes Ballon d’Or award

Former Bayern Munich and German national player Markus Babbel has voiced strong opposition to the Ballon d’Or, describing the upcoming ceremony as “the biggest clown competition in the world.” Speaking to “ran,” Babbel argued that individual awards have no place in a team sport like football and called for the immediate abolition of such honors.

He further criticized the reactions of players and clubs when their representatives are not selected, calling the resulting insults and offense “ridiculous.”

The Ballon d’Or, organized by France Football in collaboration with UEFA, has been awarded annually since 1956. The winner is determined by a jury of 100 journalists from the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries. The upcoming ceremony is scheduled to take place in London.