France Football has unveiled the 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlists, with English trio Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice earning nominations in the men’s category. Alessia Russo and Alex Greenwood have been selected among the women’s nominees.
The final lists, comprising 30 players in each division, were announced on Tuesday. The winners will be revealed during a ceremony in London on 26 October.
Among the men’s nominees is last year’s winner Ousmane Dembélé, who is seeking to retain the title. His France teammate Kylian Mbappé is also in contention after making history this summer by surpassing Lionel Messi as the all-time top scorer in World Cup history with 22 goals.
Surprised Rice made the cut. Bellingham yes, but Rice? Seems like a reach compared to other midfielders.
Mbappé breaking the World Cup scoring record is incredible. Do you think that pushes him over Dembélé this year?
Kane finally getting a nomination is huge. After that Champions League run, he deserves the recognition.