Spain’s World Cup triumph has propelled Lamine Yamal to the top of the early Ballon d’Or 2026 rankings. The Barcelona winger is now widely regarded as the leading contender for the prestigious individual award after playing a pivotal role in his country’s successful campaign.
Yamal heads the list ahead of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who sits in second place, while England striker Harry Kane occupies third. Former Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, who claimed the honor in 2025, ranks fourth, followed by his France teammate Kylian Mbappé in fifth.
Another French standout, Michael Olise, comes in sixth, with England midfielders Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice placed seventh and eighth respectively. Norway and Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is ninth, while Georgia forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia rounds out the top ten.
The current standings position Yamal strongly for the award, with his performances for both club and country likely to be decisive factors in the final voting.
Ballon d’Or 2026 Ranking
- Lamine Yamal
- Lionel Messi
- Harry Kane
- Ousmane Dembélé
- Kylian Mbappé
- Michael Olise
- Jude Bellingham
- Declan Rice
- Erling Haaland
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
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