With the 2025/26 football season now complete following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, attention has turned to the race for the Ballon d’Or.
The prestigious award will be presented in London on October 26, with Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Rodri and defending champion Ousmane Dembélé emerging as the leading contenders.
Kane has built a compelling case through his outstanding goalscoring record and consistency throughout the season.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes the England captain deserves the award, although he acknowledged that World Cup success often influences voting.
Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal has also strengthened his credentials after playing a key role in his country’s World Cup triumph.
Rodri had previously tipped the Barcelona winger as a future Ballon d’Or winner, while former France defender William Gallas believes Yamal’s contribution to Spain’s success gives him an edge over Kane.
Kylian Mbappé has also re-entered the conversation after finishing as the World Cup’s leading scorer with 10 goals.
A readers’ poll conducted by French newspaper L’Équipe placed the Real Madrid forward ahead of several other contenders, highlighting strong public support for his campaign.
Lionel Messi has likewise returned to the spotlight after leading Argentina to another World Cup final with eight goals and four assists, prompting renewed calls for a record-extending ninth Ballon d’Or.
Defending champion Ousmane Dembélé remains among the favourites, while Rodri continues to earn recognition for another influential season with club and country.
Former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna also praised Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, suggesting he could have become a serious Ballon d’Or contender had his club won the UEFA Champions League.
As the October ceremony approaches, the race remains finely balanced between Kane’s extraordinary individual numbers, Yamal’s World Cup success and the outstanding campaigns produced by Messi, Mbappé, Rodri and Dembélé.
