Ballon d’Or Féminin 2026: Top 10 favourites to win award ranked
SKAiF NewsNG SNN
For the 2026 Ballon d’Or Féminin, the early favourites are shaped by performances in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, domestic leagues like the WSL and Liga F, and early national team form heading into a major tournament cycle.
Aitana Bonmatí, who won a record third consecutive award in 2025, remains a central figure but faces stiff competition from emerging powerhouses.
Melchie Dumornay (Lyon & Haiti)
Considered the most dangerous player in Europe at the start of 2026. She has been the “beating heart” of Lyon’s current Champions League campaign, leading the team in shots and goals while displaying incredible versatility as both a number nine and a creative playmaker.
Alexia Putellas (Barcelona & Spain)
The two-time winner continues to operate at a legendary level, orchestrating Barcelona’s midfield. She is averaging over one direct goal involvement per game in the 2025/26 Champions League season, proving she remains a lethal force following her return to peak fitness.
Klara Bühl (Bayern Munich & Germany)
The creative engine for Bayern, Bühl has dominated the assist charts in European competition. Her ability to single-handedly revive Bayern’s attack through unselfish play and exceptional crossing has made her a top-tier individual contender.
Mariona Caldentey (Arsenal & Spain)
Since her high-profile move to England, Caldentey has become the “tempo control” for Arsenal. After leading the Gunners to a Champions League title and being named the 2024/25 WSL Player of the Year, her tactical intelligence keeps her at the forefront of the race.
Caroline Graham Hansen (Barcelona & Norway)
Often a direct rival to her own teammates for individual awards, Hansen remains a relentless force on the wing. She recently reached the milestone of 100 goals for Barcelona and consistently leads her team in creating high-quality chances.
Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current & Malawi)
Representing the NWSL, Chawinga is widely regarded as the most lethal striker on the planet when healthy. As a back-to-back league MVP and Golden Boot winner, her inclusion is driven by pure goal-scoring dominance.
Alessia Russo (Arsenal & England)
The 2024/25 Football Writers’ Association’s Player of the Year, Russo is a “complete package” striker. Her status as a Champions League and Euro 2025 winner, combined with her high-level link-up play, makes her England’s primary candidate.
Sandy Baltimore (Chelsea & France)
Described as Chelsea’s “secret weapon,” Baltimore provides immense versatility across the front and back lines. Her composure in dangerous spaces and consistent contributions in both the WSL and Champions League have elevated her to elite status.
Linda Caicedo (Real Madrid & Colombia)
At just 19 (in late 2025), Caicedo is already Real Madrid’s most thrilling player. She has delivered on massive hype by consistently taking on defenders and creating chaos in both domestic and European competitions.
Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona & Spain)
While no longer the undisputed number one in every power ranking, the current holder’s “otherworldly brilliance” ensures she is never far from the top. Having won in 2023, 2024, and 2025, she remains the benchmark for world-class midfield play.
The post Ballon d’Or Féminin 2026: Top 10 favourites to win award ranked appeared first on Vanguard News.
