Raphinha and Pedri miss out! Ballon d'Or 2026 nominations spark backlash over players left off the 30-man shortlist

The 2026 Ballon d’Or 30-man shortlist has already triggered backlash after notable players were left off the list. Raphinha, Pedri, and Désiré Doué are among the names sparking debate on social media following the September announcement. The controversy is being compared to last year’s surprise snubs of Alexander Isak and Julián Álvarez. Ahead of the Oct. 26 ceremony in London, fans are pointing to form and tournament impact, citing Raphinha’s 13 goals and three assists in 22 La Liga appearances and Pedri’s two goals and nine assists in 29 league matches. The voting timeline runs through the full season from August to July, and the 2026 World Cup is factored in, though winning it doesn’t guarantee the award.