Lamine Yamal Wins Third Kopa Trophy at 2026 Ballon d'Or

Lamine Yamal, a 19-year-old forward for Barcelona and the Spanish national team, has won the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, surpassing his teammate Pau Cubarsí. Upon receiving the award, Yamal expressed gratitude but stated that he believed Cubarsí deserved the honor as well.

He acknowledged the contributions of his teammates at both club and international levels to his success. This recognition emphasizes Yamal's rise as a prominent young talent in football, following impressive performances for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

The Kopa Trophy, awarded as part of the Ballon d’Or ceremony, recognizes the best male player under 21. The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony took place at the London Palladium in England, marking the first time the awards were held outside France.

England captain Harry Kane is considered a favorite for the Ballon d’Or, competing against La Liga stars Yamal and Kylian Mbappé.