Key Takeaways
- 30 players shortlisted for the 2026 Ballon d’Or men’s award.
- Harry Kane and Erling Haaland among the top nominees.
- Stanley Matthews to be honored at the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony.
France Football has announced the nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with 30 players selected for the men’s award. The list includes several prominent footballers such as Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, and Lionel Messi.
Harry Kane, who recently played for Bayern Munich and England, entered the race after an exceptional season. He scored 73 goals in 65 matches, helping Bayern secure the Bundesliga, German Cup, and German Super Cup treble, and leading England to the World Cup semifinals.
Erling Haaland, a key player for Manchester City and Norway, scored 58 goals in 64 matches. Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, who contributed 75 goals and assists in 49 appearances for Inter Miami and Argentina, also made the list.
Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo, who helped Al-Nassr win the Saudi Pro League title, was not included on the shortlist. The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held in London for the first time, as a tribute to Stanley Matthews, the winner of the inaugural Ballon d’Or.
The women’s Ballon d’Or shortlist features several prominent names, including Ewa Pajor, Alexia Putellas, and Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw. Vozinha, the Cape Verde goalkeeper, has been nominated for the Yashin Trophy following his standout performances at the World Cup.
The 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or will be held in London, marking a significant milestone in the history of the award. The event will honor Stanley Matthews, the winner of the inaugural Ballon d’Or, and celebrate the achievements of the top footballers in the world.
The ceremony, scheduled for October 26, will bring together the best players from around the globe, with the winners set to be announced in a highly anticipated event.
