Ballon d’Or 2026: Power Rankings and Top Contenders

The Ballon d’Or race is reaching its climax tonight in London, where the world’s top player will be crowned. Among the frontrunners are Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and others whose performances have dominated headlines and social media.

Spain's victory over Argentina in the World Cup final boosted both 2024 winner Rodri and Yamal into contention. Barcelona seems to support Yamal as their main candidate, possibly avoiding splitting votes between their two stars. Meanwhile, bookmakers favor Kane, who built his case on a relentless streak of scoring and assisting goals.

During the World Cup, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi reminded everyone he still belongs in the conversation at 39 years old. Scoring eight goals, he propelled Argentina to the final and briefly became the tournament's all-time leading scorer before being surpassed by Kylian Mbappe. Sir David Beckham even predicted Messi would win after inspiring Inter Miami to the Campeones Cup.

Top 10 Ballon d’Or Contenders

10. Pau Cubarsi – A new entry from Barcelona, Cubarsi has impressed as a young defensive pillar for club and country. At just 19, he's already among the world’s best defenders, carrying his form from Spain’s World Cup win back to Camp Nou, where Barcelona remains undefeated in the league. Though he won the Young Player of the Tournament, winning both the Golden Boy and Ballon d’Or in one night like Messi did seems unlikely.
9. Michael Olise – Now with Bayern Munich and France, Olise has become one of the brightest attacking talents. Despite interest from Real Madrid, Bayern held on to him. While he might not clinch the Ballon d’Or this year, his performances keep him in the discussion. His low-key acceptance speeches could be memorable if he ever wins.
8. Erling Haaland – Haaland starred in the World Cup, pushing Norway to the quarterfinals and dismantling Brazil. His club form remains strong with 38 goals last season and a hot start this year with 12 goals in 10 games. Yet, Manchester City's recent guilty verdict over inflated sponsorships may have hurt his chances, as some voters might see his success as tainted.
7. Jude Bellingham – England’s standout midfielder recovered from a tough previous season to shine at the World Cup and help England secure bronze. Starting strong this season with seven goal contributions in nine league games, Bellingham shows signs of regaining top form under Mourinho. His Ballon d’Or chances remain slim but never dismiss him.
6. Ousmane Dembele – If France had lifted the World Cup, Dembele would have been a favorite for a second Ballon d’Or, combining Champions League and World Cup glory. Instead, he finished as PSG’s top scorer but with fewer goals overall. His slow start this season weakens his chances further.
5. Lionel Messi – The eight-time winner isn’t in the running for his MLS exploits but for his stunning World Cup showing at 39, scoring eight goals and helping Argentina reach the final. His retirement from international football makes this likely his last chance. Beckham believes he can still take home the trophy.
4. Kylian Mbappe – At 27, it’s surprising Mbappe hasn’t won the Ballon d’Or yet. His World Cup Golden Boot, scoring 10 goals and breaking the all-time record, bolsters his case. Despite a turbulent club season at Real Madrid, he scored 42 goals in 44 games. Starting this season with 12 goals in 12 games, Mbappe remains a top challenger.
3. Rodri – The World Cup’s Golden Ball winner, Rodri anchored Spain’s midfield and helped them win the title. Though his club season with Manchester City was less spectacular, his move to Barcelona has seen him join a team dominating LaLiga. Still, he doesn’t appear confident about his individual chances, suggesting Barcelona backs Yamal more.
2. Lamine Yamal – The 19-year-old made history by appearing in both a European Championship final and a World Cup final, winning both. His club stats are impressive, with 24 goals and 18 assists last season and a strong start this year. A key moment was beating Kane’s England in a Nations League match shortly before voting closed, briefly making him the odds-on favorite.
1. Harry Kane – The leading candidate, Kane scored 61 goals in 51 games last season for Bayern Munich, securing a league and cup double. At the World Cup, he netted six goals, helping England to their best finish since 1966. Continuing his form with 17 goal contributions in 11 appearances this season, Kane benefits from the ceremony being in London, marking the 70th anniversary of the first Ballon d’Or won by an Englishman. His teammate Declan Rice calls him the clear winner.