Kane and Russo shortlisted for 2026 Ballon d’Or as London prepares to host awards
Harry Kane and Alessia Russo are among the nominees announced on 8 September 2026, with the Ballon d’Or winners due to be named in London on 26 October.
In short
- Harry Kane and Alessia Russo are among the nominees announced on 8 September 2026, with the Ballon d’Or winners due to be named in London on 26 October.
Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice have been shortlisted for the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or, while Alessia Russo and Alex Greenwood are among the nominees for the women’s award, The Guardian reported on 8 September 2026.
France Football announced 30 nominees in each of the two categories. The winners will be revealed on 26 October 2026 in London, which will host the ceremony for the first time.
The men’s shortlist includes the 2025 winner, Ousmane Dembélé, alongside Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi. In the women’s competition, Alexia Putellas, Ewa Pajor and Melchie Dumornay are among those nominated, according to The Guardian. The nominations establish the contenders; voting results have yet to be announced.
The move to London marks 70 years since Stanley Matthews won the inaugural award in 1956. UEFA’s announcement identifies the London Palladium Theatre as the venue. France Football presents the awards and has co-organised the ceremony with UEFA since 2024.
