The nomination debate begins early

The latest Ballon d’Or coverage highlights ten major names who were not nominated for the 2026 award, putting the spotlight on the omissions as well as the eventual shortlist. The discussion illustrates how closely the individual award is scrutinised, particularly when established stars are absent.

A companion ranking turns to the 2026 Coach of the Year race, assessing the managers viewed as the leading favourites. Together, the reports frame the awards season as a debate about both overlooked individual talent and the coaches shaping elite teams.

For fans wanting to test their historical knowledge, a separate quiz challenges readers to name every previous Ballon d’Or winner.