The 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or have been revealed, with Lionel Messi returning to the shortlist after a two-year absence. Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, has missed out once again.
Messi, now 39, last appeared among the nominees in 2023. He went on to win the award that year for a record eighth time.
His return follows another memorable World Cup campaign with Argentina. Messi scored eight goals and helped his country reach the final before Spain won the tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo Misses Out Again
Ronaldo has failed to make the Ballon d’Or shortlist for four consecutive years.
The Portuguese star last appeared among the nominees in 2022. His latest omission means he will have to wait another year for a chance to return to the prestigious list.
Major Stars Make the Shortlist
Several other football stars have earned nominations this year.
Harry Kane makes the cut after a remarkable season with Bayern Munich. Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland, Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham and defending champion Ousmane Dembele are also among the contenders.
Rodri has returned to the shortlist as well after helping Spain win the World Cup. He was also named the tournament’s best player.
Full 30-Man Ballon d’Or List
The complete list of nominees includes:
- Jude Bellingham
- Pau Cubarsi
- Marc Cucurella
- Ousmane Dembele
- Luis Díaz
- Bruno Fernandes
- Gabriel Magalhaes
- Erling Haaland
- Achraf Hakimi
- Harry Kane
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
- Lamine Yamal
- Sadio Mane
- Marquinhos
- Lautaro Martinez
- Kylian Mbappe
- Nuno Mendes
- Lionel Messi
- Joao Neves
- Michael Olise
- Willian Pacho
- Julian Quinones
- Declan Rice
- Rodri
- Fabian Ruiz
- William Saliba
- Ferran Torres
- Dayot Upamecano
- Vinícius Jr.
- Vitinha
PSG and Spain Feature Strongly
Paris Saint-Germain have a major presence on the shortlist after another successful season.
Spain’s World Cup triumph also features prominently among the nominees. Several players from the champions have earned recognition for their performances.
Ballon d’Or Ceremony Moves to London
The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced on October 26, 2026.
For the first time in the award’s history, the ceremony will take place in London rather than Paris.
The move marks the Ballon d’Or’s 70th anniversary. It also pays tribute to England legend Sir Stanley Matthews, who became the first player to win the award in 1956.
