Shortlist unveiled

France Football revealed the 30-man shortlist on 8 September 2026, featuring Jude Bellingham, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Cucurella, Ousmane Dembele, Luis Diaz, Bruno Fernandes, Gabriel, Erling Haaland, Achraf Hakimi, Harry Kane, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Lamine Yamal, Sadio Mane, Marquinhos and Kylian Mbappe among others.

Writers’ picks

James Horncastle backs Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for his back-to-back Champions League impact with PSG and historic role in Napoli’s title. Amelie Claydon picks Lamine Yamal after his World Cup final appearance as a teenager and 16 La Liga goals.

Tom Burrows nominates Michael Olise for 22 goals and 31 assists for Bayern Munich and seven assists at the World Cup. Daniel Taylor argues for Kylian Mbappe’s 58 goals for club and country and thrilling World Cup displays.

Rob Tanner highlights Rodri’s dominance at the World Cup and with Barcelona, while Jack Pitt-Brooke makes the case for Harry Kane, citing 36 Bundesliga goals and 61 in all competitions.

Why the prize matters

The Ballon d’Or has grown into a global commercial and cultural moment. Ousmane Dembele’s win in 2025 was watched live by 2.5m viewers in France, with millions more on social media. With Messi and Ronaldo no longer dominating, the award is now seen as a launchpad for the next generation of global stars, driving sponsorship and club prestige.

Michael Owen remains the last English winner from 2001, a prize that now carries knighthood-level weight in the modern game.