Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane is one of three England players nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Kane, who scored 73 goals last season for club and country, is joined on the 30-player shortlist by Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham and Arsenal’s Declan Rice, with Kane currently considered the favorite for the award.
Notable Nominees and World Cup Impact
- Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi is nominated as he seeks a ninth Ballon d’Or. The 39-year-old scored eight goals as Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain in July, after which he retired from international football.
- Lamine Yamal is one of six Spain players included following their World Cup victory.
- Paris St-Germain forward Ferran Torres, who scored the winning goal in the final, makes the cut alongside nine other PSG teammates, including last year’s winner Ousmane Dembele.
- Real Madrid forwards Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr are shortlisted, as are Arsenal defenders Gabriel and William Saliba.
Ceremony Details
The award is celebrating its 70th anniversary, having been created by France Football in 1956. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on 26 October. The symbolic choice of venue serves as a tribute to former England player Sir Stanley Matthews, who won the inaugural Ballon d’Or.
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