The 2026 Ballon d’Or race has officially begun with the release of the nominees for this year’s awards, covering outstanding performances during the 2025/26 football season.
The unveiling marks the 70th edition of the prestigious awards, with nominees being announced across several categories, including the Men’s and Women’s Ballon d’Or, Goalkeeper of the Year, Young Talent of the Year, Striker of the Year, Coach of the Year and Club of the Year.
Among the clubs shortlisted for the Men’s Club of the Year award are Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Bodø/Glimt and Flamengo.
The Women’s Club of the Year shortlist features Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Club América, Manchester City and OL Lyonnes.
The awards will recognise individual and team achievements from the past season, with performances at both club and international level taken into consideration.
The 2026 ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on October 26, marking the first time the Ballon d’Or gala will be held in the British capital.
The main men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or categories are expected to feature 30 nominees each, while other individual categories will honour outstanding young players, goalkeepers, strikers and coaches.
Last year’s men’s award was won by Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé, while Barcelona star Aitana Bonmatí claimed the women’s prize.
With the 2026 shortlists now being released, attention will turn to the voting process and the eventual announcement of this year’s winners in London.
