The six editions of the FIFA Ballon d'Or were dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as part of their ongoing rivalry.

[4] According to reports, FIFA's decision not to renew the deal was made in order to improve the organization's strained relationship with England's FA.

This was based on the fact the annual ceremony was held in Zürich – and new FIFA president Gianni Infantino wanted to move the next one to London.

[citation needed] The trophy was designed by Croatian artist Ana Barbić Katičić.

[5] The selection criteria for the players of the year are sporting performance, as well as general conduct on and off the pitch.