The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony, held in Paris, was meant to be a night of celebration for the world's best footballing talent, but a moment of awkwardness occurred when former England and Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello presented the award for the best women's coach. The recipient, Sarina Wiegman, manager of the England women's national team, was incorrectly introduced as "Sabrina Wiegman" by Capello.

Despite the slip-up, Wiegman took the stage with grace and humor, accepting the Johan Cruyff trophy with a broad smile. Wiegman was honored as women's coach of the year for guiding the Lionesses to Euro 2025 glory in Switzerland. This victory marked the first time a senior England team had lifted a major trophy abroad. "What an honour to get this award after an insane summer," Wiegman said at the ceremony. She also thanked the players, staff, the FA, and her family for their support.

Wiegman, who has been in charge of the English national team since 2021, had previously won the European Championship with the Netherlands. She has also won the award for best coach at FIFA's The Best awards, both as coach of the Netherlands and with England. Wiegman felt the accolade was “recognition of the women's game and of our journey”.

The Lionesses beat Spain 3-1 on penalties after the final finished 1-1 after extra time to win Euro 2025 in Switzerland. Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, 24, saved two of Spain's efforts in the shootout.

Beyond Wiegman's award, other notable moments from the ceremony included Hannah Hampton winning the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper. The Kopa Trophy, celebrating the best young player, went to Vicky Lopez of Barcelona and Spain.

On the men's side, the nominees for the Johan Cruyff Trophy for best manager were Antonio Conte (Italy, Napoli), Luis Enrique (Spain, Paris Saint-Germain), Hansi Flick (Germany, Barcelona), Enzo Maresca (Italy, Chelsea), and Arne Slot (Netherlands, Liverpool). Ultimately, Luis Enrique, who led PSG to an historic treble, winning the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and their first-ever Champions League title, won the award. PSG also beat out Barcelona, Botafogo, Chelsea and Liverpool to win Best Club of the Year in the men's category.

As for the highly anticipated Ballon d'Or award, Barcelona's Lamine Yamal has been touted by some, including Capello, as a potential winner. Capello stated he would vote for Yamal, followed by Real Madrid duo Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. Capello even compared Yamal to Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona. Other potential contenders include PSG's Ousmane Dembele, and Liverpool's Mohamed Salah.

The Ballon d'Or ceremony, while featuring Capello's minor gaffe, highlighted the achievements of Sarina Wiegman and other stars in the footballing world. It served as a reminder of the growing prominence and recognition of women's football, as well as a celebration of individual excellence and team success.