Countdown to the Men’s Ballon d’Or 2026 Winner

The anticipation builds as the men’s Ballon d’Or 2026 is set to be awarded on October 26. Last year, Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele received this prestigious accolade. Rodri claimed it in 2024, while Lionel Messi achieved an incredible eighth win in 2023.

The list of 30 nominees for 2026 is out and includes familiar names like Dembele, Rodri, and Messi. The contenders’ performances have been evaluated between August last year and July. This period featured significant events such as the World Cup.

Noteworthy Nominees

• Jude Bellingham
• Pau Cubarsí
• Marc Cucurella
• Ousmane Dembélé
• Luis Díaz
• Bruno Fernandes
• Gabriel
• Erling Haaland
• Achraf Hakimi
• Harry Kane
• Khvitcha Kvaratskhelia
• Lamine Yamal
• Sadio Mané
• Marquinhos
• Others

Judges, composed of 100 journalists, will rank players from 1 to 10 based on specific criteria such as individual performances, team achievements, and fair play on and off the pitch. Although subjective, the World Cup’s influence can be substantial.

The Athletic’s Top 10 Candidates

1. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich & England)

Harry Kane excelled in the 2025-26 season with a remarkable 73 goals in 65 games. His achievements spread across domestic leagues and international tournaments, highlighting his importance during critical matches. Despite setbacks like Bayern’s Champions League exit, Kane’s dominance makes his candidacy strong.

2. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich & France)

Michael Olise led Europe’s top leagues with 20 goals and 32 assists. He performed outstandingly for Bayern and the French national team, demonstrating his creativity and adaptability. Olise’s influence was evident despite Bayern lacking major titles.

3. Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona & Spain)

Rodri experienced a challenging season with injuries. However, his return led to impressive performances. His World Cup contributions for Spain, earning him the Golden Ball, solidified his influence. His transition to Barcelona further highlights his adaptation and skill.

4. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid & France)

Kylian Mbappe’s remarkable scoring record continued at the World Cup, securing a second Golden Boot. His performance for Real Madrid showcased his exceptional skill, although a lack of team awards may impact his Ballon d’Or chances.

5. Erling Haaland (Manchester City & Norway)

Erling Haaland amassed 47 goals and 22 assists in club competitions. His leadership helped Norway reach the World Cup quarter-finals. Haaland’s individual contributions stand out despite team results falling short.

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

Kvaratskhelia delivered key performances in PSG’s Champions League campaign. Injuries affected his World Cup participation, but his crucial actions in major matches maintained his candidacy.

7. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain)

Lamine Yamal’s 22 goals and 15 assists showcased his continued development. Despite injuries limiting his World Cup impact, his effectiveness at the club level emphasized his potential.

8. Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich & Colombia)

Luis Diaz contributed significantly to Bayern’s success with 22 goals and 17 assists. Despite international challenges, his work ethic facilitated his teammates’ successes.

9. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England)

Jude Bellingham shone for England in the World Cup, becoming their top scorer with seven goals. However, club struggles with Real Madrid affected his overall Ballon d’Or contention.

10. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami & Argentina)

Messi’s World Cup performance added to his illustrious career, scoring eight goals and assisting four. Although older, his MLS achievements suggest his enduring influence in football.