Home / Sports / Kane, Mbappe, Yamal Vie for Ballon d'Or 2026 in London
Kane, Mbappe, Yamal Vie for Ballon d'Or 2026 in London
26 Oct
Summary
- Ballon d'Or 2026 ceremony to be held in London on October 26.
- Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal lead men's contenders.
- Alexia Putellas and Khadija Shaw headline women's award race.
London will host the Ballon d'Or 2026 ceremony at the Palladium Theatre on October 26, marking the first time the prestigious football award is presented in the city. The event gathers top global football talent to compete for individual honors.
This year's ceremony gains significance following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with performances during the tournament heavily influencing voter decisions alongside club achievements. England's Harry Kane, who scored 73 goals in the 2025-26 season, and Kylian Mbappe, the World Cup's top scorer with 10 goals, are among the leading male contenders.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who guided Spain to World Cup victory and Barcelona to domestic titles, also features prominently. Erling Haaland, the Premier League's top scorer with 27 goals, remains in contention, alongside Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for his Champions League exploits.
The women's award is equally competitive, with Alexia Putellas aiming for a third Ballon d'Or after leading Barcelona to four trophies. Manchester City's Khadija Shaw, who netted 21 Women's Super League goals, is also a strong contender, alongside Ewa Pajor and Melchie Dumornay.
