The 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist was revealed, featuring Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and Kylian Mbappé among the top contenders. Kane impressed with Bayern Munich and England, while Yamal and Mbappé shone for Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively. Lionel Messi earned a nomination for the first time since 2023, after his move to Inter Miami. Defending winner Rodri is also nominated, now with Barcelona teammates Yamal and Pau Cubarsí.

Paris Saint-Germain dominate the list with 10 nominees, including Ousmane Dembélé, Achraf Hakimi, and Marquinhos. Dembélé, last year's winner, stated the trophy should stay at PSG. Other notable nominees include Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland. No goalkeeper was nominated, keeping Lev Yashin's 1963 win unique.

The women's shortlist features Alexia Putellas, Bunny Shaw, and Alessia Russo. For club awards, PSG are favorites after their double, with Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Flamengo, and Bodo/Glimt also nominated. Coaches like Luis Enrique, Vincent Kompany, and Mikel Arteta are up for men's coach of the year, while Lamine Yamal is among the young talent nominees.