The countdown to discovering the winner of the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or is underway, with the award ceremony scheduled for October 26. Last year, Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele celebrated as football’s top individual award recipient, following in the footsteps of Rodri in 2024 and Lionel Messi, who claimed his eighth victory in 2023.
On September 8, the shortlist of 30 candidates for the 2026 Ballon d’Or was unveiled, featuring prominent figures like Dembele, Rodri, and Messi. This list of nominees accounts for performances from August of the previous year to July of this year, which includes pivotal moments like the World Cup and many high-stakes fixtures.
Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees
The list of candidates released includes:
- Jude Bellingham (England)
- Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
- Marc Cucurella (Spain)
- Ousmane Dembélé (France)
- Luis Díaz (Colombia)
- Bruno Fernandes (Portugal)
- Gabriel (Brazil)
- Erling Haaland (Norway)
- Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)
- Harry Kane (England)
- Khvitcha Kvaratskhelia (Georgia)
- Lamine Yamal (Spain)
- Sadio Mané (Senegal)
- Marquinhos (Brazil)
The selection process involves 100 journalists ranking their top 10 players using criteria such as individual performance, team achievements, and sportsmanship.
Top Contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or
There are ten standout candidates making waves in the football world:
Harry Kane (Bayern Munich & England)
Kane’s extraordinary 2025-26 season saw him netting 56 goals and providing eight assists across the Bundesliga, Champions League, and World Cup. His total rose to 73 in 65 matches with contributions in other competitions and international games.
Despite falling short in certain crucial matches, including the Champions League semi-final, Kane’s commanding performances make him a strong contender for the award. At 33, Kane aims to secure the honor amidst a season defined by individual brilliance.
Michael Olise (Bayern Munich & France)
Olise accumulated 20 goals and an impressive 32 assists, excluding penalties, across Europe’s major leagues. His record-setting seven World Cup assists and additional five goals in international friendlies bolster his candidacy.
Olise’s dynamic approach and creativity exhibit his growing prominence in European football. His contribution to Bayern and France was pivotal but club success in major tournaments eluded him.
Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona & Spain)
Rodri’s season divided into overcoming an ACL injury and solidifying his prowess in Manchester City’s lineup. His exemplary conduct at the World Cup led Spain to victory, earning him the Golden Ball.
Despite limited playing minutes for City, his dramatic international performance elevates his status for the award consideration, showcasing his critical role in Spain’s triumph.
Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid & France)
Mbappe clinched his second consecutive World Cup Golden Boot with ten goals, becoming the finals’ all-time top scorer. His prowess extended to Real Madrid, where he scored 40 times amid challenging club dynamics.
Despite extraordinary individual feats, a lack of major club trophies and France’s fourth-place finish at the World Cup might hinder his chances.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City & Norway)
Haaland registered 27 Premier League goals, alongside creative advances with eight assists. His season accounted for a total of 69 goal contributions for club and country.
Haaland’s impact at the World Cup, propelling Norway to the quarter-finals, further affirms his standing. His proficiency underscores his choice as a formidable contender.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain & Georgia)
Injuries sidelined many PSG stars, amplifying Kvaratskhelia’s contributions. His four goals and two assists steered PSG to consecutive Champions League wins.
His performances in crucial Champions League stages highlight his integral role, contrasting Georgia’s absence from the World Cup scene.
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain)
Yamal’s campaign featured 22 goals and 15 assists, restricted by injuries. Despite constraints, his World Cup achievements, complete with a record tally for England, spark interest.
As a teenage World Cup victor, Yamal’s agility and skill mark him as a prodigious talent.
Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich & Colombia)
Diaz, critical in Bayern’s offense, amassed 22 goals and 17 assists. His relentless drive provided a foundation for teammates’ successes.
Despite Colombia’s World Cup struggles, his dedication ranks him among Europe’s premier attackers.
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England)
Bellingham’s versatility during the World Cup rounds solidified his status, contributing seven goals for England.
His domestic challenges at Real Madrid pose obstacles, yet his remarkable World Cup display remains prominent.
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami & Argentina)
Messi’s swansong at the World Cup included eight goals and multiple assists, setting records for created chances.
His MLS feats and Argentina’s victories underscore his influence. At the age of 39, his lasting impact merits consideration for an unprecedented ninth award.
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