Qatar Airways Makes History as First Presenting Partner of the Ballon d’Or®

DOHA, Qatar, Sept. 19, 2025 – Qatar Airways has announced a landmark partnership with France Football, becoming the first-ever Presenting Partner of the Ballon d’Or®, football’s most prestigious individual award. The historic 69th edition of the ceremony will be held on 22 September 2025 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.

For more than six decades, the Ballon d’Or® has stood as the pinnacle of football achievement, honouring the best players in both the men’s and women’s game. This year, the celebrated awards will also showcase a groundbreaking collaboration, uniting the World’s Best Airline with the world’s best footballers.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, described the milestone as a powerful statement of the airline’s values.

“We are delighted to become the first ever Presenting Partner of the Ballon d’Or® Ceremony as we celebrate the legends who inspire generations,” Al-Meer said. “This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. Just as we connect people and places through our award-winning service, this collaboration allows us to connect dreams, cultures, and the passion for football across continents.”

UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin welcomed the move, noting that the partnership represents more than just sponsorship.

“The Ballon d’Or® is more than an award it’s a celebration of inspirational talents who define football and its history,” Čeferin said. “We are honoured to welcome Qatar Airways as the first presenting partner of this iconic ceremony. Together, we celebrate not only the passion for the beautiful game but also the profound value of bringing the world closer together.”

The 2025 Ballon d’Or® will crown the year’s best players, selected by international journalists from across the globe. France Football magazine, the award’s custodian since 1956, will reveal the final winners at the Paris gala.

The partnership further cements Qatar Airways’ growing influence in global sport. Already a household name in football through its collaborations with FIFA, the UEFA Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Milan, the airline also boasts partnerships across diverse disciplines, including Formula 1®, MotoGP, tennis, rugby, cricket, basketball, and more.

By stepping onto the stage of football’s greatest award, Qatar Airways underscores its brand mission: to unite people worldwide through sport, excellence, and shared passion.