French Police Probe Suspected Insider Betting on Ballon d'Or Results

French police have launched an investigation into suspected insider trading and suspicious betting patterns surrounding the Ballon d'Or awards ceremony held last month. Law enforcement authorities acted after a series of wagers accurately predicted the exact top-five ranking in the men's category.

According to sources speaking anonymously to The Athletic, the suspicious bets were executed through 12 separate accounts on the prediction market platform Polymarket. These accounts correctly forecasted the precise finishing order: Harry Kane in first place, Kylian Mbappe second, Lamine Yamal third, Rodri fourth, and Lionel Messi fifth. Investigators noted that not only the extraordinary accuracy but also the specific management of market positions raised red flags regarding potential insider information.

The 12 accounts placed a total of 250,000 euros in wagers, generating profits of approximately 200,000 euros. Organizers of the prestigious accolade, editors of the magazine France Football, received warnings regarding abnormal betting patterns before the results were officially confirmed. Following the official announcement, organizers initiated an internal inquiry and contacted the Central Service for Horse Racing and Gambling (SCCJ), the specialized unit within the French police responsible for monitoring and investigating gambling offenses.

A spokesperson for the award emphasized the organization's commitment to fairness, stating that maintaining the integrity of the Ballon d'Or is a top priority and noting that winners are chosen through an independent voting process. The spokesperson added that organizers take allegations of leaked results and potentially fraudulent betting extremely seriously, with ongoing investigations working to establish the facts and determine accountability.

The scandal brings renewed scrutiny to prediction market platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi, which enable users to trade on the outcomes of future events. These platforms face mounting criticism due to limited regulatory oversight, raising significant concerns over insider trading risks. Several US states have already pursued legal actions against such betting activities, and legal challenges could potentially reach the Supreme Court.

While the investigation remains in its early stages and no definitive proof of a leak or wrongdoing has yet been established, the uncanny accuracy of the 12 accounts and the irregular betting behavior have triggered a formal inquiry into one of world football's most coveted prizes.