Messi, Mbappe, Yamal among 2026 Ballon d’Or nominees
The 30 player shortlist for the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or has been announced. Some of the biggest names in world football are in the race for the award.
Lionel Messi is back among the nominees. The eight time winner enjoyed another impressive year with Inter Miami. He also scored eight goals and provided four assists as Argentina reached the World Cup final.
Kylian Mbappe also made the list after another strong season for Real Madrid and France. Lamine Yamal is another leading contender after helping Spain win the World Cup.
Harry Kane is also among the favourites. Erling Haaland, Rodri and last year’s winner Ousmane Dembele have also earned nominations.
Jude Bellingham, Michael Olise, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Luis Diaz, Achraf Hakimi and Lautaro Martinez are among the other big names on the shortlist.
The winner will be announced at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on October 26.
Full nomination list:
Rodri, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Jude Bellingham, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Cucurella, Ousmane Dembele, Luis Diaz, Bruno Fernandes, Erling Haaland, Gabriel Magalhaes, Harry Kane, Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Marquinhos, Sadio Mane, Lautaro Martinez, Nuno Mendes, Michael Olise, Joao Neves, Willian Pacho, Julian Quinones, Declan Rice, Fabian Ruiz, Ferran Torres, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Vinicius Junior, Vitinha
