2026 Ballon d’Or Nominees: Mbappe, Messi, and More

France Football has announced the list of 30 men’s and 30 women’s nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. This year’s awards come after a significant World Cup year. Last season, Ousmane Dembele and Aitana Bonmati won the prestigious honor.

The ceremony will take place in London on October 26, marking the first time it is held there and honoring Sir Stanley Matthews, who won the original award in 1956.

Harry Kane is considered a strong favorite for the men’s prize after scoring 73 goals last season with Bayern Munich and England. Kylian Mbappe, now at Real Madrid, surpassed Lionel Messi to become the all-time World Cup goalscorer with 22 goals. Messi, aged 39, continues to impress, contributing 75 goals and assists across 49 games for Inter Miami and Argentina before retiring from international football.

Paris Saint-Germain leads the nominations with nine players named. The club has won back-to-back Champions League titles. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, Raphinha, and Pedri were not selected.

The women’s category is wide open after Aitana Bonmati’s absence. Alexia Putellas of London City Lionesses and Ewa Pajor are among the top contenders.

Notable names in the men’s list include Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England), Gabriel (Arsenal & Brazil), and Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid & Brazil). Women’s nominees include Melchie Dumornay (OL Lyonnes & Haiti) and Alessia Russo (Arsenal & England).

The awards also recognize young talents and goalkeepers. Lamine Yamal of Barcelona is a rising star in the men’s category, while Vozinha of Colo Colo stands out as a surprise choice for the Yashin Trophy.

Men’s Club of the Year nominees include Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain, while women’s contenders are Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and OL Lyonnes.