Mbappé Ballon d’Or race heats up as the France star leads Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembélé and Lionel Messi after World Cup success

Kylian Mbappé has moved to the front of the 2026 Ballon d’Or race after playing a decisive role in France’s 2-0 victory over Morocco in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals.

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The France captain’s performance in Thursday’s match strengthened his position among the leading contenders for football’s most prestigious individual award, with prediction market Polymarket placing him ahead of England striker Harry Kane.

Mbappé endured a difficult start against Morocco after missing a first-half penalty, but the Real Madrid forward responded in the second half by opening the scoring in the 60th minute with a brilliant finish before setting up Ousmane Dembélé for France’s second goal.

The display helped push the 27-year-old above Kane in the latest Ballon d’Or rankings, according to figures shared by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Mbappé currently leads the standings with 28 per cent, while Kane follows closely with 25 per cent.

France teammate Dembélé occupies third place with 15 per cent, while Argentina captain Lionel Messi is fourth with 13 per cent.

The latest Mbappé Ballon d’Or race developments come as France continue their pursuit of another World Cup title. The forward has been one of the tournament’s standout performers, combining goals and assists at crucial moments for Didier Deschamps’ side.

Kane’s strong tournament campaign has also kept him among the leading candidates, while Dembélé’s contribution to France’s attacking success has boosted his own hopes.

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With the World Cup reaching its decisive stages, the final performances of the remaining contenders could play a major role in determining who claims the 2026 Ballon d’Or.