Top 15 Ballon d’Or Power Rankings 2026: Early Favorites and Rising Contenders
As the 2025/26 season gathers momentum, attention is already turning toward the Ballon d’Or 2026, football’s most prestigious individual award. Performances at club level, consistency in major competitions, and leadership on the biggest stages are shaping the early power rankings.
Here is a look at the Top 15 Ballon d’Or contenders based on current form, influence, and impact across domestic leagues and European competitions.
Top 5 Front-Runners
1. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Harry Kane currently sits at the top of the Ballon d’Or power rankings. As Bayern Munich’s focal point, the English striker continues to deliver decisive goals, intelligent link-up play, and leadership in high-pressure matches. His influence in both the Bundesliga and Champions League keeps him firmly ahead of the competition.
2. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Erling Haaland remains one of football’s most feared forwards. His physical dominance, consistency in front of goal, and role in Manchester City’s pursuit of domestic and European titles make him a strong contender once again.
3. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Kylian Mbappé’s move to Real Madrid has elevated his Ballon d’Or credentials. His pace, finishing, and ability to decide matches single-handedly continue to fuel Madrid’s ambitions in La Liga and Europe.
4. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Raphinha’s versatility and work rate have made him a valuable asset for Barcelona. His ability to stretch defenses and contribute in key moments boosts his Ballon d’Or chances.
5. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of the most exciting young players in world football. Building on his impressive 2025 runner-up finish, the Barcelona winger’s creativity, confidence, and growing maturity make him a genuine Ballon d’Or threat.
Mid-Tier Contenders (6–10)
6. Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain)
Vitinha has become the heartbeat of PSG’s midfield. His control, vision, and tactical intelligence have helped stabilize the team in both Ligue 1 and European competition, earning him a place among the top contenders.
7. Pedri (Barcelona)
Pedri’s return to full fitness has been crucial for Barcelona. His composure, passing range, and ability to control tempo make him one of the most influential midfielders in the game.
8. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
Declan Rice continues to grow as a leader for Arsenal. His defensive awareness, ball progression, and tactical discipline have made him a key figure in their Premier League title push.
9. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain)
The reigning Ballon d’Or winner remains in the conversation. Dembélé’s dribbling, unpredictability, and impact in decisive matches keep him among the elite contenders.
10. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)
Achraf Hakimi’s pace and two-way play from right-back continue to set him apart. His attacking contributions and defensive reliability make him one of the best full-backs in the world.
Bubble Favorites (11–15)
11. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Mohamed Salah remains a consistent performer for Liverpool. His goal contributions and leadership ensure he stays in contention, especially in big matches.
12. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
Despite playing outside Europe, Lionel Messi’s influence remains undeniable. His performances, leadership, and potential impact ahead of the 2026 World Cup keep him relevant in Ballon d’Or discussions.
13. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
Michael Olise has adapted quickly at Bayern Munich. His creativity, movement, and contribution within Bayern’s high-pressing system make him one to watch in the Ballon d’Or race.
14. Luis Díaz (Bayer Munich)
Luis Díaz has grown into a crucial attacking presence for Bayer Munich. His direct dribbling, high work rate, and improved end product have made him a key contributor in both domestic and European competitions, placing him among the Ballon d’Or outsiders.
15. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s creativity and unpredictability remain his biggest strengths. Capable of changing matches with individual brilliance, he stays on the Ballon d’Or radar through his influence in high-pressure fixtures.
Final Thoughts
The Ballon d’Or 2026 race is still wide open. With major tournaments ahead and decisive Champions League moments yet to come, the rankings are likely to shift. Consistency, trophies, and standout performances will ultimately determine who lifts football’s most coveted individual award.
Who do you think deserves the Ballon d’Or in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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