2026 Ballon d’Or: Updated ranking after PSG wins UCL
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PSG’s successful defence of the UEFA Champions League title has shaken up the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with several PSG stars climbing the rankings while established contenders continue to strengthen their cases ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
With club football concluded and international competition still to come, the battle for football’s most prestigious individual award remains wide open.
10. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Despite Manchester City’s failure to reclaim the Champions League crown, Haaland remains in contention after another prolific campaign. The Norwegian striker registered 51 goals and 10 assists, helping City secure both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup while staying in the Premier League title race until the closing stages.
A lengthy goal drought earlier in the year affected his momentum, but Norway’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup offers him a fresh opportunity to impress voters on the global stage.
9. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
Rice continues to establish himself among the world’s elite midfielders. The England international played a key role in Arsenal’s Premier League-winning campaign and their run to the Champions League final.
His influence at both ends of the pitch, combined with England’s hopes of a strong World Cup showing under Thomas Tuchel, keeps him firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation.
8. Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich)
The Colombian winger has enjoyed a sensational first season in Germany following his move from Liverpool. Diaz contributed 28 goals and 25 assists as Bayern Munich completed a domestic treble by winning the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup.
His impact in Europe further enhanced his reputation, while Colombia’s World Cup participation could elevate his standing even further.
7. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain)
Few players shone brighter in the Champions League knockout rounds than Kvaratskhelia. The Georgian winger was instrumental in PSG’s latest European success and consistently delivered decisive performances throughout the latter stages of the competition.
However, Georgia’s failure to qualify for the World Cup could limit his chances of climbing much higher in the final rankings.
6. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
Mbappe once again delivered outstanding individual numbers, scoring 48 goals and providing 10 assists for Real Madrid.
While Madrid endured a disappointing trophyless campaign, the French captain remains a serious contender. A strong World Cup campaign with France could finally help him secure the Ballon d’Or that has long eluded him.
5. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
Olise’s rise has continued at Bayern Munich, where he has become one of Europe’s most productive attacking players. The French winger recorded 23 goals and an impressive 33 assists while helping Bayern dominate domestically.
His performances have also earned him a regular place in France’s national team, increasing his chances of making a major impact at the World Cup.
4. Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain)
Vitinha’s transformation into one of football’s premier midfielders has been remarkable. The Portuguese star played a central role in PSG’s domestic and European dominance, contributing seven goals and 10 assists.
His display in the Champions League final further boosted his credentials, while Portugal’s growing confidence ahead of the World Cup could strengthen his bid.
3. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
The teenage sensation remains one of the favourites for the award after another outstanding season with Barcelona.
Yamal produced 25 goals and 20 assists while helping the Catalan giants win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. Injury concerns may complicate his World Cup preparations, but a strong tournament with Spain could propel him to the top of the standings.
2. Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain)
The reigning Ballon d’Or winner has successfully re-entered the race after overcoming injury setbacks earlier in the season.
Dembele’s contributions were crucial to PSG’s Champions League triumph, with the Frenchman delivering several match-winning displays in the knockout stages. Another deep World Cup run with France could strengthen his chances of retaining the award.
1. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane currently leads the race after a remarkable campaign in which he scored 65 goals and added seven assists.
The England captain guided Bayern to three domestic trophies and continued to prove himself as one of the most complete forwards in world football. With England among the favourites for the World Cup, Kane has the opportunity to further cement his status as the leading candidate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
As things stand, Kane sits at the summit of the rankings, but the upcoming World Cup is expected to play a decisive role in determining who ultimately claims football’s biggest individual honour.
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