Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi have secured places on the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or. The nominations recognise another outstanding season for some of football’s biggest stars.
Kane enjoyed a remarkable campaign with Bayern Munich and England. He scored 73 goals in 65 appearances across club and international football. He also helped Bayern win the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup.
Meanwhile, Haaland scored 58 goals in 64 matches for Manchester City and Norway. Messi recorded 75 goal contributions across 49 appearances for Inter Miami and Argentina. He also helped Argentina reach the World Cup final.
Major Stars Included on Shortlist
The shortlist also features Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Lamine Yamal. However, five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo missed out despite winning the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr.
The women’s shortlist includes Barcelona’s Ewa Pajor and Alexia Putellas. Manchester City striker Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw also earned recognition after another prolific campaign.
Vozinha Nominated for Yashin Trophy
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has earned a place on the 10-player Yashin Trophy shortlist. His impressive World Cup performances helped Cape Verde progress from the group stage.
He will compete against Spain’s Unai Simon and Argentina’s Emi Martinez. Fellow African nominees Yassine Bounou and Edouard Mendy also remain in contention.
Ballon d’Or Ceremony Set for London
The 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place in London on October 26. Organisers will stage the event as a tribute to Stanley Matthews, the first Ballon d’Or winner.
With several elite players competing for the prestigious award, the 2026 ceremony promises another closely watched battle. Kane, Haaland and Messi will enter the race among the strongest names on the shortlist.
