With the 2026 FIFA World Cup now concluded, attention has shifted to the race for the Ballon d’Or as anticipation builds ahead of the prestigious award ceremony.
The organisers have confirmed that the 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be unveiled during a gala ceremony on Monday, October 26.
Following standout performances for club and country, several players have emerged as leading contenders for football’s highest individual honour.
The top 10 Ballon d’Or power rankings are:
- Lamine Yamal
The Spain and Barcelona forward is widely regarded as the favourite after helping Spain win the FIFA World Cup. At 19 years old, Yamal is in contention to become the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in history following an outstanding campaign for club and country.
- Lionel Messi
The Argentina captain remains a strong contender for what would be his ninth Ballon d’Or. The 39 year old inspired Argentina to the World Cup final while maintaining impressive numbers for goals and assists throughout the season.
- Kylian Mbappe
Although France fell short of lifting the World Cup trophy, Mbappe enhanced his reputation by finishing the tournament with 10 goals. The Real Madrid forward also became the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history and claimed the LaLiga Pichichi award.
- Harry Kane
The Bayern Munich striker enjoyed a remarkable season, scoring 61 goals across all competitions as the German club secured both the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal titles.
- Ousmane Dembele
The Paris Saint Germain forward is among the leading contenders after another successful campaign in which he helped the French champions retain both the Ligue 1 and UEFA Champions League titles while scoring 20 goals.
- Erling Haaland
Haaland led Norway to the World Cup quarterfinals with seven tournament goals, including a decisive brace against Brazil in the round of 16. He also finished the club season with 38 goals for Manchester City.
- Rodri
The Manchester City midfielder, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, strengthened his credentials after being named the best player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Jude Bellingham
Despite ending the club season without a trophy, the Real Madrid midfielder impressed for England at the World Cup, scoring seven goals and leading his side to the semifinals.
- Michael Olise
Olise finished as the leading assist provider at the World Cup. The Bayern Munich star also scored 22 goals and registered 31 assists during the club season, earning the Bundesliga Player of the Season award.
- Declan Rice
The Arsenal midfielder enjoyed an outstanding campaign, playing a vital role in the club’s first major title in 22 years. He also delivered consistent performances for England throughout the World Cup despite battling injury and fatigue.
