[1] Ten nominees are chosen by a panel of international journalists based on the criteria that they are at least 27 years of age and still playing.

[2] From 2024, the winner is selected by a committee of professionals chaired by Antonio Caliendo, the founder of the award.

The winner of the award leaves a permanent mould of his footprints on "The Champions Promenade", on the seafront of the Principality of Monaco.

The auction is held during the gala evening at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, and raises funds for fighting AIDS.

An equivalent award for women's football was assigned from 2022 onwards.