Short answer

The Super Ballon d'Or is not an official, recurring award, and there is no 40‑year cycle for it.

Key points

  • The Super Ballon d'Or is not recognised by France Football.
  • No organization has announced a regular 40‑year schedule.
  • The regular Ballon d'Or remains an annual award.

The Super Ballon d'Or is not an official, recurring accolade and there is no plan to award it every 40 years.

What the Super Ballon d'Or actually is

In 1989 France Football presented a one‑off "Super Ballon d'Or" to Alfredo Di Stéfano to honour his career achievements. It was a singular tribute, not a new category of the annual Ballon d'Or.

Why the 40‑year myth persists

Some fans link the 1989 honour to the 40‑year mark and speculate that another could appear in 2029. There is no official statement or precedent that establishes a 40‑year cycle. The idea is more romantic speculation than fact.

Current status of the Ballon d'Or

The Ballon d'Or continues as an annual award for the best player of the season. No "Super" version has been scheduled, and any future special edition would be announced separately by France Football.

Frequently asked questions

Has any player besides Di Stéfano received a Super Ballon d'Or?

No, Alfredo Di Stéfano is the only player ever to have been given the Super Ballon d'Or.

Will the Super Ballon d'Or replace the regular Ballon d'Or?

No, the regular Ballon d'Or remains an annual award; the Super version, if ever revived, would be an additional special honour.

Who decides on a Super Ballon d'Or?

France Football, the organiser of the Ballon d'Or, would need to create and announce any such award.

See also

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