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The race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, despite Spain lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy.
In previous World Cup years, the award often had a clear favorite. In 2006, defender Fabio Cannavaro won the Ballon d’Or after captaining Italy to World Cup glory. Luka Modrić claimed the prize in 2018 after leading Croatia to its first-ever World Cup final, while Lionel Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023 became almost inevitable after inspiring Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title.
This time, however, the picture is far less clear. Although Spain emerged as world champions, no single player has established himself as the undisputed frontrunner for football’s most prestigious individual award.
Some stars excelled at club level but failed to make a significant impact on the international stage, while others shone during the World Cup but could not match that form throughout the club season.
Amid the uncertainty, sports streaming platform DAZN has released its latest Ballon d’Or power rankings, naming five leading contenders for the award.
The shortlist features Argentina’s Lionel Messi, Spain’s Lamine Yamal, England captain Harry Kane, France star Kylian Mbappé, and Spain midfielder Rodri.
The winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or will be announced next month, bringing an end to one of the most closely contested races in recent years.