Kane, Mbappé, Yamal Lead Ballon d'Or 2026 Shortlist

Last year's winner Ousmane Dembélé, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappé headline the 30-man Ballon d'Or 2026 shortlist announced by France Football. The winners will be revealed at a ceremony in London on October 26. PSG dominates with nine nominees including Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, and Nuno Mendes.

In the women's category, two-time winner Alexia Putellas, Ewa Pajor, and Melchie Dumornay are among the favorites. Three-time consecutive winner Aitana Bonmatí did not make the cut due to injury. Lionel Messi, with his record eight awards, is nominated but other past winners like Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo were excluded. afsport.lat