France Football has released the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, with Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé among the top contenders. The list includes notable names such as Sadio Mané and other global stars. Yamal, the young Spanish forward, has been praised for his performances with Barcelona, while Mbappé, the French striker, remains a strong favorite after his World Cup success.
The Ballon d'Or, awarded annually to the best footballer, is now in its 60th year. This year’s shortlist reflects a mix of established stars and rising talents. Yamal, 18, has already made a significant impact in La Liga, while Mbappé, 25, continues to dominate in both club and international football. The competition for the award is expected to be fierce, with several other top players also in the running.
France Football will announce the final winner in November 2026. The event will take place in Paris, where the winner will be celebrated alongside other top performers. The shortlist highlights the global nature of modern football, with players from various leagues and countries competing for the prestigious award.
