The Ballon d’Or 2026 ceremony takes place in London on October 26, with Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi among the leading names in contention for football’s most prestigious individual honour. The 70th edition of the awards brings together the world’s biggest stars to recognise performances during the 2025-26 season, with the men’s and women’s winners among the evening’s most anticipated announcements.

Held at the London Palladium for the first time, the ceremony marks a significant occasion for the award, which was established in 1956. The main event is scheduled to begin at 8pm UK time, with the red carpet and rankings countdown preceding the presentation.

Harry Kane’s Goalscoring Record Strengthens His Case

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane enters the race after a prolific campaign, scoring 73 goals in 65 appearances across competitions during the eligible period, according to the live coverage. His performances helped Bayern secure the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles, giving him a strong combination of individual output and team success.

Kane’s international campaign with England also forms part of the conversation, although the team’s third-place finish at the World Cup means he fell short of a major international title. A win would put Kane among the small group of English players to have claimed the award.

Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe Challenge for the Prize

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal is another major contender. The 19-year-old reportedly recorded 25 goals and 20 assists in 57 appearances during the assessment period, continuing his rise among football’s leading attacking players.

A senior Ballon d’Or victory would be a landmark achievement for Yamal, who has already won the award’s young-player honour in previous editions.

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe also remains firmly in the conversation after another prolific season. However, the balance between individual statistics and major team honours could prove important when voters’ decisions are assessed.

Eight-time winner Lionel Messi is also among the nominees. A victory would extend his record, although his performances for Inter Miami are being weighed against those of players competing in Europe’s leading leagues.

🚨 OFFICIAL: The Ballon d’Or 2026 TOP 10 (in no particular order):

🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappé
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Harry Kane
🇪🇸 Lamine Yamal
🇦🇷 Lionel Messi
🇪🇸 Rodri
🇬🇪 Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
🇫🇷 Michael Olise
🇫🇷 Ousmane Dembélé
🇳🇴 Erling Haaland
🇪🇸 Fabián Ruiz pic.twitter.com/FITLXXzNiz

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 26, 2026

Women’s Ballon d’Or Set for a New Winner

The women’s award is guaranteed to have a different winner after defending champion Aitana Bonmati missed the shortlist following a leg fracture. Barcelona legend Alexia Putellas, a two-time winner, is among the leading contenders, alongside players including Khadija Shaw and Claudia Pina.

How the Ballon d’Or Winners Are Decided

Specialist football journalists vote on the awards, considering individual performances, team achievements and sporting conduct. The ceremony will also recognise young talents, goalkeepers, coaches, clubs and social-impact initiatives.

With several high-profile candidates and no confirmed winner in the latest live updates, the 2026 ceremony could deliver a defining moment for both established superstars and football’s emerging generation.