Ballon d’Or 2026: Ranking the Leading Contenders Before the Ceremony

The competition for the Ballon d’Or is nearly decided as the world’s best player prepares to be announced at tonight’s event in London. Key players like Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal have made strong cases, with campaigns from players and clubs stirring plenty of debate across social media.

Spain’s World Cup victory over Argentina thrust 2024 winner Rodri and Yamal into the spotlight. Barcelona has backed Yamal as their primary candidate, possibly avoiding splitting votes with Rodri, his teammate on both club and country. Despite this, bookmakers place Kane as the favorite, backed by his relentless scoring and playmaking during the season.

At the World Cup, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, at 39 years old, reminded everyone he’s still a force by scoring eight goals to help Argentina reach the final. He briefly held the tournament's all-time top scorer record until Kylian Mbappe surpassed him. Former star David Beckham believes Messi could win again after leading Inter Miami to the Campeones Cup.

Ballon d’Or 2026 Top 10 Power Rankings:

10. Pau Cubarsi (New Entry)Barcelona’s defender has emerged as a top young talent, winning Young Player of the Tournament at the World Cup. At just 19, he anchors Barca’s defense as they remain unbeaten in La Liga. Despite his defensive brilliance, it seems unlikely he will join Messi as a player to win both the Golden Boy and Ballon d’Or in the same year.
9. Michael Olise (No Change)Now with Bayern Munich, Olise has shown himself as a top attacker and formed a promising partnership with Mbappe at the World Cup. Real Madrid reportedly tried to sign him, hoping to reunite the duo. While his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or remain slim this year, he remains part of the conversation.
8. Erling Haaland (Dropped)Haaland was a standout at the World Cup, leading Norway to the quarterfinals and scoring against big teams like Brazil. His domestic form remains strong, starting this season with 12 goals in 10 matches. Yet, Manchester City’s recent guilty verdict over financial misconduct may have hurt his chances, with some voters possibly swayed against him despite his performances.
7. Jude Bellingham (Moved Up)After doubts about his place on England’s squad, Bellingham proved crucial, helping England secure third place at the World Cup. His pre-tournament season was disrupted by injury, but he’s returned strongly with seven goal contributions in nine league games. His World Cup impact and current form keep him in the race.
6. Ousmane Dembele (Moved Up)Had France won the World Cup, Dembele might have been the favorite for a second straight Ballon d’Or, combining Champions League and World Cup success. Though PSG’s top scorer last season, his goal output was lower than before, and France’s semi-final exit means his chances are slim. A slow start to this season doesn’t help his case.
5. Lionel Messi (No Change)Despite his age, Messi’s World Cup performance was outstanding, earning him the player of the tournament nod. Even though Argentina lost the final, his eight goals kept him relevant in the debate. His retirement from international football following his father’s death signals this might be his last shot at the award. Beckham has predicted a win for him after Inter Miami’s success.
4. Kylian Mbappe (Dropped)At 27, Mbappe still seeks his first Ballon d’Or. His Golden Boot at the World Cup, with 10 goals, broke records and kept him among the top contenders. Despite a challenging club season amid Real Madrid controversies, he scored 42 goals in 44 games. This season has started well with 12 goals in 12 matches, making him a serious challenger.
3. Rodri (Moved Up)The World Cup’s influence on the Ballon d’Or vote is evident here. Rodri’s commanding presence in Spain’s midfield earned him the Golden Ball. His domestic season was solid but not spectacular, with Manchester City winning two cups but missing the Premier League title. Starting strong at Barcelona this season adds weight to his claim, though he modestly supports teammate Yamal’s candidacy.
2. Lamine Yamal (Dropped)Yamal could become a future multiple Ballon d’Or winner. At 19, he made history by playing in both the European Championship and World Cup finals—winning both. His club form is impressive, with 24 goals and 18 assists last season and 20 goal contributions in just 12 games this term. A Nations League win over Kane shortly before voting closed briefly made him the favorite, but Kane regained the lead.
1. Harry Kane (Moved Up)The England captain leads despite a quieter World Cup compared to his explosive Bundesliga campaign. He scored 61 goals in 51 games last season for Bayern, securing a league and cup double. His six World Cup goals helped England to their best finish since 1966. Continuing his form into this season, Kane has 17 goal contributions in 11 appearances. The ceremony’s London location, marking the 70th anniversary of the first Ballon d’Or, may boost his chances to become the fifth English winner. Teammate Declan Rice calls him the clear winner, citing Kane’s remarkable year.