The leading contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or have been ranked, with several of Europe’s biggest stars emerging as early favorites for the prestigious individual award.
Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele won the Golden Ball in 2025, but attention has now shifted to the race for this year’s prize.
According to Sportskeeda, Erling Haaland is currently fifth among the favorites. The Norway international, who finished second behind Lionel Messi in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings, has been impressive for Manchester City this season. Playing under manager Pep Guardiola, the striker has scored 29 goals and recorded seven assists in 39 appearances across all competitions.
In fourth place is Michael Olise of Bayern Munich. The 24-year-old former Crystal Palace winger has enjoyed a standout campaign, registering 13 goals and 25 assists in 36 matches under Vincent Kompany. Olise has also become a regular starter for the France national football team and is expected to play a key role for Les Bleus at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.
Third on the list is Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona. The young winger nearly became the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in history after finishing runner-up to Dembele last year. This season, the Spain international has continued his rise, scoring 19 goals and providing 15 assists in 36 appearances. Yamal has already helped Barcelona win the Supercopa de España and is pushing for the La Liga title under coach Hansi Flick.
Second place goes to Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid. The French star has been prolific this season, scoring 38 goals and adding six assists in 33 appearances across competitions. Mbappe will hope to strengthen his Ballon d’Or chances by guiding Madrid to both the La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles, as well as leading France at the 2026 World Cup.
Topping the list is Harry Kane, who is currently the leading favorite to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The England national football team captain has been in sensational form for Bayern Munich, scoring 45 goals and providing five assists in 37 appearances in all competitions this season. Kane has already helped the German club secure the DFL-Supercup and is on course to win the Bundesliga title.
