2026 Ballon d’Or power rankings reveal the top 10 contenders, with Lamine Yamal, Messi, Mbappé and Kane among favourites for the award

The 2026 Ballon d’Or power rankings have placed Lamine Yamal as the leading contender for football’s most prestigious individual award after a remarkable season with club and country, including Spain’s World Cup triumph.

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The Ballon d’Or organisers have confirmed that the winner will be announced during a gala ceremony on Monday, 26 October 2026, with several elite players competing for the honour after a dramatic football year.

Yamal, who helped Spain lift the World Cup, has emerged as the favourite among many observers.

At just 19 years old, the Barcelona forward could become the youngest player ever to win the award if he secures the prize.

The teenager’s rise has been one of the defining stories of the season, combining impressive performances at club level with a historic international campaign.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi remains firmly in contention despite entering the later stages of his career.

At 39 years old, Messi delivered another influential campaign, producing strong goal and assist numbers while coming close to leading Argentina to another World Cup title.

Kylian Mbappé is another major contender after an outstanding tournament with France.

Although France failed to win the World Cup, the Real Madrid forward enhanced his reputation by finishing with 10 goals and becoming the leading scorer in World Cup history.

England captain Harry Kane also features among the favourites after a sensational domestic season with Bayern Munich.

Kane scored 61 goals across competitions during the 2025-26 campaign as Bayern secured Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal success.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé remains a strong candidate to retain the award after helping PSG defend both the Ligue 1 and Champions League titles.

The French attacker scored 20 goals during the campaign and continues to attract recognition for his influence in major matches.

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is another serious contender. The Norway international scored 38 goals for his club and played a crucial role in his country’s World Cup run, scoring seven goals during the tournament.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, could also challenge for another surprise victory after being named the best player at the 2026 World Cup. His ability to control games from midfield remains a major factor in his case.

England midfielder Jude Bellingham earned his place among the leading contenders after a strong World Cup performance.

Despite ending the club season without major silverware, Bellingham played a key role in England’s run to the semi-finals and contributed seven goals during the tournament.

Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise has also entered the conversation following a remarkable season.

The French attacker finished as the World Cup’s leading assist provider and recorded 22 goals and 31 assists for Bayern during the 2025-26 season, earning Bundesliga Player of the Season recognition.

Completing the top 10 is Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice, whose consistency and leadership helped the Gunners secure their first major title in 22 years.

Rice was also an important figure for England at the World Cup despite dealing with injury and fatigue.

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The final Ballon d’Or decision is expected to spark intense debate, with the award race featuring a blend of emerging talent, established legends and players who delivered defining moments on the world stage.