The Ballon d'Or 2021 ceremony was a night of glitz, glamour, and, of course, footballing excellence. For those who missed it or want to relive the magical moments, finding the full video is a top priority. This article dives into where you can watch the complete ceremony and relives the highlights of that unforgettable night. So, guys, get ready to immerse yourselves in the world of football's biggest individual honor!

Finding the Full Video: Your Options

So, you're on the hunt to watch the entire Ballon d'Or 2021 ceremony? No worries, there are several avenues you can explore. Here's a breakdown of where you might find the full video:

• Official Streaming Platforms: Keep an eye on platforms like YouTube or the official websites of sports broadcasters such as ESPN, Sky Sports, or beIN SPORTS. These channels often upload full event replays or extended highlight packages shortly after the live broadcast. A simple search using keywords like "Ballon d'Or 2021 full show" or "Ballon d'Or 2021 ceremony replay" can yield positive results. Sometimes, these videos might be region-locked, so a VPN might be necessary.
• Sports News Websites and Apps: Major sports news outlets like ESPN, BBC Sport, and Sky Sports frequently host video content related to big events. While they might not always have the full ceremony, they often provide extensive highlights, interviews, and analysis segments that cover all the key moments and award presentations. Check their video sections and search using relevant keywords.
• Social Media Channels: While the full official video might be harder to find on social media due to copyright restrictions, you can often find fan-uploaded clips and highlight reels on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Be cautious about the video quality and reliability of these sources, but they can be a good way to catch snippets of the ceremony. Searching hashtags like #BallonDor2021 can lead you to interesting content.
• Dedicated Football Streaming Services: Services that specialize in football content such as FIFA+, UEFA.tv, or regional sports streaming platforms might offer replays of the Ballon d'Or ceremony as part of their coverage of major football events. Check their schedules and on-demand sections to see if the full video is available. These platforms often require a subscription.
• Ask Around in Football Forums and Communities: Don't underestimate the power of community! Football forums and online communities often have dedicated threads where fans share links to videos and replays of events like the Ballon d'Or. Ask around and see if anyone has a reliable source for the full video. Communities on Reddit (r/soccer, for example) can be great resources.

Remember to be patient and persistent in your search. Copyright restrictions can sometimes make it challenging to find full event replays easily, but with a little effort, you should be able to locate the Ballon d'Or 2021 ceremony and relive all the excitement. Happy watching!

Reliving the Highlights of the 2021 Ballon d'Or

The 2021 Ballon d'Or ceremony was truly an unforgettable night filled with emotional moments, deserving winners, and stunning performances. Here's a trip down memory lane, highlighting some of the key events that made the evening so special:

• Lionel Messi's Historic Seventh Ballon d'Or: The biggest headline of the night was undoubtedly Lionel Messi securing his seventh Ballon d'Or award, extending his record as the player with the most Ballon d'Ors in history. This win sparked debate among fans and pundits, with some arguing that Robert Lewandowski deserved the award. Nevertheless, it was a momentous occasion for Messi and his legions of fans worldwide. His speech was heartfelt, acknowledging his teammates and rivals, and expressing his gratitude for the support he's received throughout his illustrious career. The images of Messi holding the golden ball aloft will forever be etched in football history. This win cemented his legacy even further and added another chapter to his incredible story.
• Alexia Putellas Wins the Women's Ballon d'Or: In another historic moment, Alexia Putellas of Barcelona and Spain won the Women's Ballon d'Or. Putellas had an outstanding season, captaining Barcelona to a Champions League title and a domestic treble. Her acceptance speech was inspiring, highlighting the growth of women's football and encouraging young girls to pursue their dreams. This win was not only a personal triumph for Putellas but also a significant milestone for women's football, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of female players around the world. Her achievement served as an inspiration to aspiring female footballers globally and further elevated the profile of the women's game.
• Robert Lewandowski's Striker of the Year Award: While he may have missed out on the Ballon d'Or itself, Robert Lewandowski was recognized for his incredible goal-scoring record by being awarded the Striker of the Year award. Lewandowski had a phenomenal season for Bayern Munich, breaking Gerd Müller's long-standing Bundesliga goal-scoring record. Although there was some disappointment that he didn't win the main prize, the Striker of the Year award was a fitting acknowledgment of his prolific scoring ability and his contribution to Bayern Munich's success. His consistency and dedication to his craft were truly remarkable.
• Gianluigi Donnarumma Wins the Yashin Trophy: The Yashin Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper in the world, went to Gianluigi Donnarumma, who had an exceptional year for both AC Milan and the Italian national team. Donnarumma was instrumental in Italy's Euro 2020 triumph, saving crucial penalties in the semi-final and final. His performances solidified his reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and the Yashin Trophy was a well-deserved recognition of his talent and achievements. He is considered as the top goalkeeper in the world and a rising star.
• Chelsea Wins Club of the Year: Chelsea was named the Club of the Year, recognizing their success in winning the Champions League and their overall performance throughout the year. This award highlighted the collective effort of the players, coaches, and staff who contributed to Chelsea's success. It was a proud moment for the club and their fans, solidifying their position as one of the top clubs in Europe. It also was a great victory for the club.

The 2021 Ballon d'Or ceremony was a celebration of football's finest, honoring the achievements of individual players and teams. It was a night filled with drama, excitement, and memorable moments that will be talked about for years to come.

Why the Ballon d'Or Still Matters

The Ballon d'Or, established in 1956, remains the most prestigious individual award in football. But in an era increasingly dominated by team play and collective success, why does this individual accolade still hold so much weight? Here's why the Ballon d'Or continues to matter:

• Recognition of Individual Excellence: In a team sport like football, it can be challenging to single out individual contributions. The Ballon d'Or provides a platform to recognize and celebrate the exceptional talent, skill, and dedication of individual players who have made a significant impact on the game. It acknowledges those who consistently perform at the highest level, inspire their teammates, and captivate fans with their extraordinary abilities. These individuals often push the boundaries of what's possible on the pitch and elevate the sport to new heights.
• Historical Significance and Legacy: The Ballon d'Or has a rich history and tradition, with a list of past winners that reads like a who's who of footballing legends. From Di Stéfano and Pelé to Cruyff, Platini, and Maradona, the award has been bestowed upon some of the greatest players of all time. Winning the Ballon d'Or not only recognizes a player's achievements in a particular year but also cements their place in football history. It's a legacy that lasts far beyond their playing career, ensuring they are remembered as one of the greats.
• Inspiration for Aspiring Players: The Ballon d'Or serves as a powerful source of inspiration for young footballers around the world. Seeing their idols lift the golden ball motivates them to work harder, hone their skills, and pursue their dreams of playing at the highest level. The award symbolizes the pinnacle of individual achievement in football, and it encourages aspiring players to strive for excellence and overcome challenges in their pursuit of greatness. It is a tangible representation of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief.
• Global Media Attention and Promotion of the Sport: The Ballon d'Or ceremony is a global media event, attracting attention from millions of fans, journalists, and broadcasters worldwide. The award generates extensive coverage in newspapers, websites, television, and social media, promoting the sport and its stars to a vast audience. This increased visibility helps to grow the game's popularity, attract new fans, and generate revenue that can be reinvested in developing football at all levels. It also provides a platform for discussing important issues related to the sport, such as fair play, diversity, and social responsibility.
• Debate and Discussion: The Ballon d'Or often sparks heated debates and discussions among fans, pundits, and players alike. Who deserves to win? What criteria should be used to judge the nominees? These questions fuel passionate arguments and generate interest in the award. While some may criticize the subjective nature of the voting process, the debate it generates ultimately contributes to the award's relevance and significance. It encourages fans to analyze players' performances, compare their achievements, and express their opinions, making the Ballon d'Or a central topic of conversation in the footballing world.

In conclusion, despite the increasing emphasis on team success, the Ballon d'Or remains a vital part of football's landscape. It celebrates individual brilliance, inspires future generations, and promotes the sport to a global audience. The award is not without its critics, but its historical significance, media attention, and the debates it generates ensure that it will continue to matter for years to come.