Harry Kane Leads Favorites for 2026 Ballon d'Or in London
The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony is set to take place at the London Palladium on October 26, starting at 20:00 GMT, marking the first time the event has been held outside France. This year commemorates the 70th anniversary of the award, honoring the inaugural winner, Stanley Matthews.
Harry Kane, the England captain, is the overwhelming favorite after an impressive 2025-26 season, scoring 73 goals and leading England to a World Cup bronze medal. If he wins, he will be the first Englishman to lift the trophy since Michael Owen in 2001.
Lamine Yamal, a key player in Spain's World Cup-winning team, is his closest challenger, contributing significantly to Barcelona's success. Kylian Mbappe remains a contender after winning two World Cup Golden Boots.
The men's award is decided by a panel of 100 journalists from FIFA's top 100-ranked nations. The women's Ballon d'Or is also being awarded, with Alexia Putellas expected to win her third title after a stellar season with Barcelona.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Leadership Newspaper. Read the original report below.
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