With the 2024 CAF Awards just weeks away, Simon Adingra has emerged as the overwhelming favorite to claim the coveted African Ballon d’Or. The Ivorian winger, who has shone for Brighton & Hove Albion, is capturing the hearts of fans across the continent ahead of the December 16 ceremony.
Fan Polls Favor Adingra
A poll conducted by Foot Africa, a leading football website, reveals Adingra’s popularity among African fans.
The survey, which drew nearly 500,000 participants, saw the 22-year-old secure a commanding 54.47% of the votes—amounting to 272,352 supporters.
His closest rival, Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy of Borussia Dortmund, garnered 35.79% of the vote.
Other notable contenders, including Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi, Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, lagged far behind in the poll.
A Stellar Season
Adingra’s rise in prominence is well-earned, following a sensational season at Brighton.
The winger has not only delivered consistently strong performances in the Premier League but also showcased his exceptional talent on the European stage.
His creativity, pace, and eye for goal have made him one of Africa’s brightest stars.
Guirassy, meanwhile, has enjoyed a standout season in Germany, leading Borussia Dortmund’s attack with impressive consistency.
Despite his achievements, he trails Adingra in the fan voting, underlining the Ivorian’s widespread appeal.
Full Poll Results
The poll highlighted the competition between some of Africa’s top footballing talents:
- Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast / Brighton): 54.47%
- Serhou Guirassy (Guinea / Borussia Dortmund): 35.79%
- Achraf Hakimi (Morocco / Paris Saint-Germain): Far behind
- Ademola Lookman (Nigeria / Atalanta): Modest numbers
- Ronwen Williams (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns): Modest numbers
Excitement Builds for the Awards
The CAF Awards, scheduled to take place in Morocco, will not only celebrate the continent’s best footballer but also highlight achievements across various categories.
Adingra’s potential win would be a historic moment for Ivory Coast, further cementing the nation’s reputation for producing world-class players.
With less than a month to go, anticipation continues to grow, and fans eagerly await the official announcement.
For now, Simon Adingra’s stunning year has positioned him as the leading candidate to claim African football’s top individual honor.
