Big candidates in a neck-and-neck competition; Who will win the 2026 Ballon dOr?

As discussion grows after Spain’s World Cup title, attention is turning to the 2026 Ballon d’Or, which will be awarded on October 26 in London. According to a report cited by Marca, five players are seen as the main contenders: Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Rodri and Kylian Mbappé. Messi, 39, helped Argentina reach the World Cup final by scoring 8 goals and recording 4 assists, though Spain won the decider; the article notes he could claim a ninth Ballon d’Or and become the oldest recipient. Yamal, 19, is credited with 24 goals and 17 assists for Barcelona and key contributions to Spain’s championship, despite a quieter tournament. Kane is highlighted for 36 Bayern Munich goals last season and a second European Golden Boot, plus six World Cup goals to become England’s all-time top scorer at the tournament. Rodri is described as central to Spain’s World Cup success, blending control and defensive balance.