World Cup Ends, But a New Battle Begins as Race for 2026 Ballon d’Or Heats Up

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With the 2026 FIFA World Cup now concluded, attention across the football world has shifted from international action to the race for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

The organisers have already confirmed that the prestigious award will be presented during a gala ceremony scheduled for Monday, October 26.

Several players have emerged as strong contenders, with many expecting a new winner to be crowned this year.

ZINGTIE has compiled its latest power rankings of the top 10 players currently leading the race for the coveted individual honour.

1. Lamine Yamal: Spain’s World Cup triumph has pushed Yamal to the top of many Ballon d’Or predictions. At just 19 years old, the Barcelona sensation could become the youngest player ever to win the award after enjoying an outstanding campaign for both club and country.

2. Lionel Messi: Messi remains firmly in contention for what could be a record-extending ninth Ballon d’Or. The 39-year-old inspired Argentina to another World Cup final while delivering remarkable goal and assist numbers throughout the season.

3. Kylian Mbappe: Although France failed to secure the World Cup, Mbappe enhanced his individual reputation. The Real Madrid striker finished the tournament with 10 goals, becoming the all-time leading World Cup scorer, in addition to winning the LaLiga Pichichi award.

4. Harry Kane: No player scored more club goals during the 2025/26 campaign than Kane. The England captain netted an incredible 61 goals for Bayern Munich as the German giants claimed both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles.

5. Ousmane Dembele: The Paris Saint-Germain forward remains a serious contender to retain the Ballon d’Or. He played a crucial role in PSG’s successful defence of both the Ligue 1 and UEFA Champions League titles, scoring 20 goals during the campaign.

6. Erling Haaland: Haaland inspired Norway to the World Cup quarter-finals with his impressive goalscoring form. The Manchester City striker found the net seven times, including two goals against Brazil in the Round of 16, after scoring 38 goals at club level.

7. Rodri: The Manchester City midfielder shocked many by winning the Ballon d’Or in 2024 ahead of Vinicius Jr. After being named the best player of the 2026 World Cup, he could once again emerge as a surprise winner.

8. Jude Bellingham: Despite ending the club season without a trophy, Bellingham strengthened his Ballon d’Or credentials through an impressive World Cup campaign. The Real Madrid midfielder inspired England’s run to the semi-finals, contributing seven goals.

9. Michael Olise: Olise finished as the leading assist provider at the 2026 World Cup. Before the tournament, he enjoyed a brilliant season with Bayern Munich, scoring 22 goals and providing an outstanding 31 assists while helping the club win both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal. He was also named the Bundesliga Player of the Season.

10. Declan Rice: Rice also earns a place among the leading contenders. The Arsenal midfielder was instrumental as Mikel Arteta’s side competed for four trophies and eventually ended the club’s 22-year wait for silverware. He also played a vital role for England at the World Cup, featuring despite injury and fatigue.

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