Ballon d'Or 2026 nominees: Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice nominated
The 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist has been announced, featuring top football stars including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Lionel Messi. The winner will be revealed at a ceremony in London on October 26, marking the award's 70th anniversary.
Why it matters
The Ballon d'Or is the most prestigious individual honor in professional football, significantly influencing player market value and legacy.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Harry Kane scored 73 goals last season for club and country
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane is one of three England players nominated for the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham and Arsenal's Declan Rice join Kane, the favourite for the award, on the 30-player shortlist.
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi, who is looking to win his ninth Ballon d'Or, has been nominated.
The 39-year-old scored eight goals as Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain in July, with Messi since retiring from international football.
Lamine Yamal is one of six Spain players that won the World Cup to be included.
Having scored the winning goal in the final, Paris St-Germain forward Ferran Torres, who joined the French club from Barcelona in the summer, makes the cut.
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