Messi, Mbappé and Kane headline 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlist

France Football has announced the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or, with Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane and Erling Haaland among the nominees. Last year’s winner, Ousmane Dembélé, is also included.

Kane is reported to have scored 73 goals in 65 matches for Bayern Munich and England, helping Bayern secure the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup. Haaland is reported to have scored 58 goals in 64 matches for Manchester City and Norway.

Mbappé scored 10 goals for France at the World Cup, while Messi is reported to have recorded 75 goal contributions in 49 matches for Inter Miami and Argentina. Jude Bellingham and Lamine Yamal are also on the shortlist.

Five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo is absent despite helping Al-Nassr win the Saudi Pro League title.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has been nominated for the 10-player Yashin Trophy shortlist after performances that helped his country advance from the World Cup group stage. The women’s shortlist includes Ewa Pajor, Alexia Putellas and Khadija “Bunny” Shaw.

The awards ceremony, the 70th edition, is scheduled for London on 26 October as a tribute to Stanley Matthews, the first Ballon d’Or winner.