- The Ballon d’Or 2026 race is already shaping up to be a thriller, with world-class icons and new sensations ready to battle for top award
- Fans could witness a true generational clash, as established greats and prodigies aim to cement their legacy
- Yet, the 2026 Ballon d’Or race promises to deliver one of the most exciting editions in years
After Ousmane Dembele’s crowning moment as the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, attention has already shifted to the next race.
The battle for the 2026 edition promises to be one of the most open and fiercely contested in years, with a mix of established superstars and young prodigies all vying to etch their names into football history.
Source: Getty Images
From seasoned icons like Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland to rising sensations such as Lamine Yamal and Cole Palmer, the race is wide open — and it could produce a new face among the game’s immortals.
Check out out YEN.com.gh’s 10-man list of potential 2026 Ballon d’Or contenders below.
1. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Still one of the world’s most feared forwards, Mbappe’s explosive pace, crucial goals, and starring role at Real Madrid put him at the front of many 2026 predictions.
If he delivers in both La Liga and the Champions League, he may finally land the trophy many believe he deserves.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Many see him as a rising star who could challenge for the Ballon d’Or if he keeps performing at a top level throughout the 2025-26 season, as featured by Scores24.
Having missed out on the 2025 crown to Ousmane Dembele, finishing as runner-up, all signs point to Lamine Yamal setting his sights on the ultimate prize in 2026 — and the best part is, he has all the talent to make it happen.
3. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
The Norwegian remains one of the most lethal strike-for-strike players around. If Man City can push for every title, Haaland’s goal-scoring ability in big games could make him a front-runner. He’s already among early favorites.
4. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Consistency remains Salah’s strength but Liverpool’s early Champions League elimination last season did not help the Egyptian during the 2025 Ballon d’Or contest.
If Salah continues to contribute heavily in goals and assists, and if Liverpool has a deep run in the Champions League, he could leverage that to make a serious case in 2026, as pointed out by CBSSsports.
5. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Already in the mix in the 2025 award, Raphinha’s creative impact, goal contributions, and ability to shine in big moments make him a name to watch.
Ultimately, the Brazilian’s chances hinges on his individual brilliance as well as Barcelona’s performance in Europe.
6. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Usually mentioned among “outside chances,” Palmer has shown flashes that suggest he could break into Ballon d’Or contention. With growth, consistency, and trophies, he may just emerge as a dark horse.
7. Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain)
We don’t expect Dembele to to clinch the Ballon d’Or back-to-back but we think he could be in the contenders list thanks to his form and the fact that he’s is the current Ballon d’Or winner.
Reigning champions are always to be respected. Let’s see if he can become the first player to since Lionel Messi.
Source: Getty Images
8. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)
The Georgian winger’s dribbling magic and moments of brilliance have given him attention. Plugged into PSG’s system of stars, he might benefit from high visibility and big match performances.
9. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
Already tipped by many as a future Ballon d’Or winner, Vinícius has the pace, flair, and goal threat. If Real Madrid perform well in Europe and domestically, he’s a strong candidate.
10. Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)
Lautaro is often mentioned among the great strikers in Serie A and has the potential to put together a campaign strong enough to compete. With important goals in big matches, he could make a surprise push.
Ousmane Dembele scoops 2025 Ballon d’Or
In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh highlighted Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or 2025 win, celebrating his remarkable season with PSG that ended in a historic quadruple.
The article detailed how Dembele’s rise from setbacks to superstardom secured his place among football’s elite, while also addressing lingering questions about the Ballon d’Or’s prize money.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
