The race for the 2026 ballon d’or is officially underway, with the 30-man shortlist released today.
Among the biggest names in contention are eight-time winner Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Harry Kane.
Paris Saint-germain dominates the list with ten nominees, more than any other club.
The champions league winners are represented by Ousmane Dembele, Vitinha, Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Willian Pacho and Dayot Upamecano.
Spain leads the country count with six nominees, including Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Rodri, who moved from Manchester city to Barcelona.
Yamal is among the top young contenders after another outstanding season, while Rodri’s world cup contribution also puts him in the conversation.
England has three nominees, led by Harry Kane, who enjoyed a remarkable season with Bayern Munich.
Kane scored 73 goals for club and country and helped Bayern to a treble, making him one of the strongest contenders for the prize.
Kylian Mbappe also remains a major candidate after another prolific campaign with real madrid and france.
The Frenchman also broke the record for most world cup goals, adding to his case for the award.
And then there is Lionel Messi, who returns to the shortlist for the first time since 2023, when he won his eighth Ballon D’or.
The Inter Miami Star also impressed with Argentina, who reached the 2026 world cup final, keeping the 39-year-old in the conversation.
The 2026 Ballon D’or ceremony will take place in London on October 26, with the winner set to be crowned at the 70th edition of the awards.
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(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
