Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has emerged as the favourite to claim the 2026 Ballon d'Or after being named among the 30 nominees for football's most prestigious individual honour. The England captain is joined on the list by two of his international teammates, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham and Arsenal's Declan Rice, giving England a strong representation in this year's race.
The shortlist also includes Lionel Messi, who continues to chase a remarkable ninth Ballon d'Or despite his advancing years. The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward found the net eight times for Argentina during the World Cup, though his side ultimately fell short in the final against Spain. Messi has since announced his retirement from international duty, closing the book on one of the most decorated careers in the sport's history.
Spain's triumphant World Cup campaign has been reflected heavily in the nominations, with six players from the winning squad making the cut. Among them is teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, whose performances throughout the tournament drew widespread praise. Ferran Torres, who scored the decisive goal in the final before completing a summer move from Barcelona to Paris St-Germain, has also earned a nomination.
Paris St-Germain's dominance in European football is underlined by their representation on the shortlist, with nine players from the club included alongside Torres. That group features Ousmane Dembele, who won the award last year and remains a key figure in PSG's back-to-back Champions League triumphs.
Real Madrid's attacking talents Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr have also secured places among the nominees, continuing their run of recognition at the highest level of the sport. Arsenal's defensive contingent is represented by centre-backs Gabriel and William Saliba, reflecting the north London club's strong defensive record over the past season.
This year's Ballon d'Or carries additional significance as it marks the award's 70th anniversary since its creation by France Football back in 1956. In a nod to the competition's history, organisers have chosen London as the venue for the ceremony, scheduled to take place on 26 October. The decision to host the event in the English capital has been described as a symbolic tribute to Sir Stanley Matthews, the legendary England winger who became the first-ever recipient of the Ballon d'Or when the award was launched seven decades ago.
With Kane widely tipped as the man to beat, attention will now turn to whether the Bayern Munich striker can convert his favourite status into a maiden Ballon d'Or triumph. His club form alongside his continued influence for the England national team have kept him at the forefront of conversations about the world's best players, and a victory in London would represent a fitting personal milestone in a career already laden with individual and team achievements.
As the anniversary ceremony approaches, competition for the trophy remains fierce, with representatives from World Cup-winning Spain, European champions PSG, and Real Madrid all vying for recognition. Football fans across the globe will be watching closely to see whether history is made when the winner is finally revealed later this month.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.