The 2026 Ballon d'Or nominees were released on Tuesday. Organizers put out the full lists on Sept. 8, 2026. The men's shortlist holds 30 players. Harry Kane is included. Kylian Mbappé made it. Jude Bellingham earned a nod. Declan Rice is included. Michael Olise appears too. Luis Díaz made the cut. Dayot Upamecano was included. Lionel Messi is as well.
Kane leads the nominees following strong displays with Bayern Munich. The women's shortlist has Alexia Putellas. Bunny Shaw appears. Alessia Russo is named as well.