CricBengal.com | Football Desk
The race for football’s most prestigious individual honour reaches its climax on Monday as the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony takes place in London. Harry Kane, Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé are among the leading names in a star-studded shortlist, while Cristiano Ronaldo has missed out on a nomination.
The 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or will be held at the London Palladium on October 26, marking the first time the ceremony has taken place in London. The awards celebrate outstanding performances across men’s and women’s football, alongside honours for young players, goalkeepers, coaches and clubs.
Harry Kane Emerges as a Major Contender
Bayern Munich and England striker Harry Kane is one of the leading contenders after a prolific campaign. According to Reuters, Kane had scored 73 goals in 65 appearances for club and country when the nominees were announced.
Winning the award would make Kane the first Englishman to claim the men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001.
However, the competition is fierce. Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal, eight-time winner Lionel Messi, Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé are also among the nominees.
Messi Eyes Another Historic Achievement
Lionel Messi remains a central figure in the Ballon d’Or conversation. The Argentina captain has won the award a record eight times and is once again included among the 2026 nominees.
Another triumph would extend his remarkable record and further strengthen his legacy as one of the greatest players in football history.
Yamal, meanwhile, has emerged as one of the sport’s most exciting young talents. His performances for Barcelona have placed him among the leading names in the debate over who deserves this year’s honour.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Absence Adds to the Debate
One of the biggest talking points is Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from the 30-player shortlist.
Despite winning the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, the Portuguese forward was not nominated for the 2026 men’s award.
Ronaldo and Messi have dominated individual football honours for much of the modern era, making their contrasting positions in this year’s race particularly notable. While Messi remains in contention, Ronaldo will not be competing for the trophy this time.
Who Will Win the 2026 Ballon d’Or?
The ceremony will also feature awards for the women’s Ballon d’Or, young talent, goalkeepers, coaches and clubs.
With several outstanding candidates in contention, the final result remains one of the biggest questions in world football. Will Kane become the first English winner in 25 years? Can Messi add to his record collection? Or will Yamal or another contender emerge victorious?
The answers will be revealed at the ceremony in London.
Sources: UEFA, Reuters and the official 2026 Ballon d’Or nominee list.
