Top Contenders for the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or

The prestigious men’s Ballon d’Or award for 2026 will be announced on October 26. Last year, Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele received football’s most significant individual honor. Rodri won it in 2024, and Lionel Messi secured his eighth in 2023.

The 2026 nominee list, including these top players, has been released. Performances between last August and July, encompassing events like the World Cup, will influence the voting. Below are the nominees:

1. Jude Bellingham (England)
2. Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
3. Marc Cucurella (Spain)
4. Ousmane Dembélé (France)
5. Luis Díaz (Colombia)
6. Bruno Fernandes (Portugal)
7. Gabriel (Brazil)
8. Erling Haaland (Norway)
9. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)
10. Harry Kane (England)
11. Khvitcha Kvaratskhelia (Georgia)
12. Lamine Yamal (Spain)
13. Sadio Mané (Senegal)
14. Marquinhos (Brazil)
15. Michael Olise (France)
16. Rodri (Spain)
17. Kylian Mbappe (France)
18. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Voting relies on player performances, achievements, and sportsmanship. The World Cup’s impact on voting is substantial.

Top 10 Candidates

1. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich & England)

Harry Kane had an exceptional 2025-26 season, scoring 73 goals in 65 games, including 56 goals and eight assists across the Bundesliga, Champions League, and World Cup. His performances in key moments were notable, like his hat-trick in Germany’s DFB-Pokal final and critical goals for England. His semi-final performance against Argentina might be a factor against him, but his individual campaign was dominant.

2. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich & France)

Michael Olise led with remarkable 20 goals and 32 assists, achieving a record seven assists in a single World Cup edition. Despite team setbacks in major competitions, his individual impact remains significant.

3. Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona & Spain)

After struggling with injuries, Rodri returned to form, crucial in Manchester City’s wins and Spain’s World Cup victory. He won the World Cup’s Golden Ball, highlighting his influence despite limited playtime at City.

4. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid & France)

Mbappe excelled at the World Cup, winning a second consecutive Golden Boot with 10 goals. At Real Madrid, he scored 40 times, though his lack of major club trophies may affect his chances.

5. Erling Haaland (Manchester City & Norway)

Haaland’s impressive 47 goal contributions for City and 13 goals for Norway underscored his talent. His crucial role in Norway’s World Cup journey to the quarter-finals adds to his case.

6. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain & Georgia)

Kvaratskhelia’s Champions League contributions were significant, leading PSG to a Ligue 1/Champions League double. His performances in crucial rounds shone despite injuries and Georgia’s World Cup absence.

7. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain)

Yamal improved his performance with 22 goals and 15 assists, though injuries affected his World Cup impact. At 19, his potential and contributions remain notable.

8. Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich & Colombia)

Diaz’s tireless work supported Kane and Olise at Bayern, with 22 goals and 17 assists. Despite challenges at the World Cup, his season impact was strong.

9. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England)

Bellingham’s World Cup performance was exceptional, with seven goals for England. His club season was less impressive, but his tournament success remains a highlight.

10. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami & Argentina)

Messi’s achievements in his World Cup swansong, along with impressive club performances in MLS, ensure his place in the top 10, though his age might influence perceptions.