Ballon d'Or 2026 Latest News - Sports Illustrated

Ballon d’Or

There are some familiar faces—and a few surprise contenders—in the race to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

The Englishman’s triumph in the men’s category was mirrored by a third Women’s Ballon d’Or win for the legendary Alexia Putellas.

Monday’s ceremony brought a handful of surprising decisions.

Eyes are already turning to the 2027 Ballon d’Or, and a handful of stars are wasting no time in making their case as early frontrunners.

One year after finishing 26th, Haaland is back in the top 10 following a brilliant year for Manchester City and Norway.

The most decorated player in Ballon d’Or history finished above some of soccer’s biggest names despite being 39 years old.

The most open Ballon d’Or race of all time was won by the England captain and Bayern Munich talisman.

The 31-year-old soccer star was the only American nominated for the award.

The former Barcelona captain is back at the very top, four years since her last triumph.

The England international scored a staggering 73 goals for club and country last season.

There was only ever going to be one club called out at the London Palladium Theatre.

Spain continues to produce incredible talents between the posts.

The Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held in London after previously being staged in Paris.

Being nominated for the Ballon d’Or just once is an honor—but these players racked up nominations for fun.

A total of 21 countries have produced players who have won the Ballon d’Or.

Cristiano Ronaldo was a regular fixture at the Ballon d’Or awards for nearly two decades.

Kylian Mbappé has become a regular presence at the Ballon d’Or awards.

The Ballon d’Or has traditionally favoured attackers and midfielders, with goalkeepers rarely receiving the same level of recognition.

World soccer’s most prestigious award was first handed out in 1956.

Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Aitana Bonmati and Johan Cruyff are amongst Barcelona's legends that have won the Ballon d'Or.

The Ballon d’Or is awarded to the best footballer in the world each year—but some of the greatest ever have missed out.

The Ballon d'Or has been given to world's best footballer since 1956.

The Brazilian is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

The Ballon d’Or has recognized players well into their thirties and even forties.

Real Madrid are tied with Barcelona for the most Ballon d’Or wins in history.

The Premier League foes collide for the second time in the space of three days.