Ousmane Dembélé has been crowned the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, joining a group of French players who have lifted football’s most coveted individual award.
Here are all six French winners and their defining triumphs.
1. Raymond Kopa — 1958
Kopa became France’s first Ballon d’Or winner while starring for Real Madrid. His creativity and goals helped the club secure another European Cup crown.
2. Michel Platini — 1983, 1984, 1985
Platini remains France’s most decorated Ballon d’Or winner. The Juventus playmaker won three consecutive titles, dominating both Serie A and international football.
3. Jean-Pierre Papin — 1991
Papin, famed for his acrobatic volleys, earned the honour after leading Marseille to Ligue 1 glory and scoring prolifically in domestic and European competitions.
4. Zinedine Zidane — 1998
Zidane’s award followed France’s home World Cup triumph, where his brace in the final against Brazil defined an era. He also lifted the Serie A with Juventus.
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5. Karim Benzema — 2022
Benzema won after helping Real Madrid to the Champions League and La Liga titles. His 44 goals in all competitions secured recognition despite past controversies.
6. Ousmane Dembélé — 2025
Dembélé became the sixth Frenchman honoured, recognised for his explosive wing play at Paris Saint-Germain and his contributions to France’s Euro 2024 campaign.
France’s place in Ballon d’Or history
With ten trophies across six players, France stands behind only Argentina and Portugal in total wins. Platini’s treble remains the nation’s proudest run.
The Ballon d’Or, founded in 1956 by France Football, continues to symbolise footballing excellence.
