With the FIFA World Cup 2026 now concluded, attention across the football world has quickly shifted to the next major prize—the Ballon d'Or.

The annual award, presented by France Football, recognises the world's best footballer based on performances across the season. This year's edition carries extra significance as it marks the 70th anniversary of the prestigious accolade and introduces a historic first: the ceremony will take place outside Paris.

Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 Ballon d'Or, including when it will be held, why the venue has changed and the players leading the race for football's highest individual honour.

When is the 2026 Ballon d'Or?

The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled for:

• Date: October 26, 2026
• Time: 7:00 PM GMT
• Venue: London, England

For fans in Australia, the event begins at 5:00 AM AEDT on October 27.

The ceremony traditionally takes place in Paris, but this year's celebration heads to London in recognition of a major milestone in the award's history.

Why is the Ballon d'Or being held in London?

For the first time since its creation in 1956, the Ballon d'Or ceremony will be staged in London instead of Paris.

The move commemorates the 70th anniversary of the award and honours Sir Stanley Matthews, the legendary English footballer who became the first-ever Ballon d'Or winner in 1956.

Hosting the ceremony in England also reflects the country's historic contribution to world football and adds a unique chapter to one of the sport's most iconic traditions.

How is the Ballon d'Or winner decided?

The Ballon d'Or is awarded through voting by an international panel of journalists.

For the men's award, journalists from the top 100 nations in the latest FIFA rankings each cast a vote, while the women's award is determined by representatives from the top 50-ranked countries.

Three primary factors guide the voting process:

• Individual performances and decisive contributions throughout the season.
• Team achievements, including domestic league titles, continental competitions and international tournaments.
• Sportsmanship and fair play, alongside the player's overall influence on the game.

Unlike previous editions, the evaluation focuses on performances across the current football season, taking into account club and international competitions—including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup.

Who are the favourites to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or?

Harry Kane

Harry Kane enters the Ballon d'Or conversation with perhaps the strongest club résumé of any contender.

The Bayern Munich striker enjoyed a phenomenal campaign, scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances while helping the German giants secure a domestic treble. He also contributed six goals and one assist during England's impressive World Cup campaign, strengthening his credentials.

Lionel Messi

Even at 39 years old, Lionel Messi continues to defy expectations.

The Argentine icon inspired his nation to another World Cup final, producing eight goals and four assists throughout the tournament. While Argentina fell short against Spain in the final, Messi's performances reinforced his enduring influence on football's biggest stage and kept alive hopes of a record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or.

Kylian Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé once again delivered on football's grandest stage.

The Real Madrid forward became the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history after another Golden Boot-winning campaign and complemented his international heroics with a prolific 42-goal club season. His consistency places him firmly among the leading contenders.

Rodri

Fresh from helping Spain capture the FIFA World Cup, Rodri has strengthened his case for another major individual honour.

The Manchester City midfielder controlled matches throughout the tournament with his composure, passing and tactical intelligence. His influence at both club and international level makes him one of the strongest midfield candidates in recent Ballon d'Or history.

Jude Bellingham

England midfielder Jude Bellingham reminded the football world why he is considered one of the game's brightest talents.

His seven World Cup goals inspired England to a third-place finish, while his leadership and all-round displays for Real Madrid ensure he remains firmly in the Ballon d'Or conversation.

Other players to watch

Several other stars could challenge for football's biggest individual prize, including:

• Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain)
• Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
• Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

Each enjoyed outstanding campaigns and could benefit depending on how voters weigh club success against international achievements.

Who is the favourite?

At this stage, the race appears unusually open.

Harry Kane's remarkable goalscoring season gives him a compelling case, while Lionel Messi's unforgettable World Cup campaign, Kylian Mbappé's record-breaking performances and Rodri's role in Spain's triumph ensure the final outcome remains far from certain.

As voting begins, the 2026 Ballon d'Or is shaping up to be one of the most closely contested editions in recent memory.

Key Takeaways

• The 2026 Ballon d'Or will be held on October 26 in London.
• It marks the 70th anniversary of football's most prestigious individual award.
• London hosts the ceremony for the first time, honouring inaugural winner Sir Stanley Matthews.
• Journalists from the world's top-ranked football nations decide the winner.
• Harry Kane, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Rodri and Jude Bellingham headline the list of favourites.

FAQ

When is the 2026 Ballon d'Or?

The ceremony is scheduled for October 26, 2026, beginning at 7:00 PM GMT in London.

Why is the ceremony not in Paris?

The event has been moved to London to celebrate the Ballon d'Or's 70th anniversary and honour the first-ever winner, Sir Stanley Matthews.

Who are the favourites?

Harry Kane, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Rodri and Jude Bellingham are widely regarded as the leading contenders.

SportsLigue