Dembele, Mbappe, and Kane Lead Star Studded Ballon d’Or Race for 2026.

The race for football's biggest individual prize is heating up. France Football has unveiled the official shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, and it’s packed with familiar faces and rising stars. Last year's winner, Ousmane Dembele, is back in the running alongside heavyweights like Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

The winners for both the men's and women's awards will be crowned at a ceremony in London on October 26th, marking a shift from the traditional Paris venue to celebrate the award's 70th anniversary.

On the men's side, the debate is intense. While a major international trophy often tips the scales, Mbappe made history at the World Cup by breaking Lionel Messi's all-time goal record in the tournament, even though his French side fell to champions Spain in the semis.

Dembele, however, has the weight of silverware behind him. After clinching a second straight Champions League title with PSG, he's a strong contender to go back to back. Meanwhile, Harry Kane put up video game numbers, netting a staggering 73 goals for Bayern Munich and England, while also leading his nation to a third place World Cup finish.

Spain’s World Cup winning captain, Rodri who won the award in 2024 is also on the list, as is the legendary Lionel Messi. At 39, Messi earned his spot after guiding Argentina to a World Cup final and winning the MLS title with Inter Miami.

PSG is the dominant force in the nominations, with a whopping nine of their players making the cut. Dembele himself predicts the trophy will stay in Paris, naming teammate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kane, and Mbappe as his top picks for the win.

On the women’s side, the absence of three time winner Aitana Bonmatí is a huge talking point, as she missed most of the season due to injury. The favorites now include two time winner Alexia Putellas, Ewa Pajor, and rising star Melchie Dumornay.

However, not everyone is celebrating. For the first time in a while, there are no nominees from Italy, Germany, or the Netherlands. And once again, no goalkeeper has made the cut, meaning the legendary Lev Yashin remains the only shot stopper to ever win the award back in 1963.

Voting is conducted by a panel of journalists from the top ranked footballing nations, who base their decisions on individual performances, team trophies, and the player's conduct on the pitch.