From left to right, Lionel Messi, Franck Ribery and Cristiano Ronaldo [Photo/Agencies]

ZURICH - The world soccer governing body FIFA and France Football magazine announced on Monday the three-man shortlist for this year's Ballon d'Or with Lionel Messi, Franck Ribery and Cristiano Ronaldo to vie for the award.

Messi of Argentina has won the award for four consecutive times while Ronaldo of Portugal won the award in 2008. And Ronaldo has been seen as the favorite to win this year's award following his solid performance in the national team as well as in his club Real Madrid.

Ribery of France was already named Europe's best player for helping Bayern Munich win the Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup last season.

The Ballon d'Or will be presented in Zurich on January 13.