Yamal Claims Ballon d’Or Edge as 2026 Race Heats Up
Barcelona star Lamine Yamal believes he has done enough to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with the prestigious ceremony reportedly scheduled for October 26 at London’s Palladium Theatre, according to Sport.
The Ballon d’Or is awarded based on several factors, including individual displays, team success, major achievements, technical quality and fair play. Founded by France Football, the award remains one of football’s most fiercely contested individual honours.
Yamal and Barcelona teammate Rodri are among the players attracting significant attention in this year’s race.
Speaking on Movistar’s Universe – Valdano programme, Yamal said: “Mbappé and I are the two best, but I feel I deserve it more this year.”
The teenager believes his individual performances, combined with winning a league title and, most importantly, the 2026 World Cup, strengthen his case for the award.
Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, has remained relatively low-key in the build-up to this year’s ceremony. At Manchester City, he helped secure the Premier League title and also played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.
Vinícius Júnior was initially regarded as a leading contender, but his prospects were reportedly affected by fair play concerns, while Real Madrid eventually chose not to attend the award ceremony.
Yamal also discussed Kylian Mbappé, who previously placed himself ahead of 2025 Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé.
In an interview with L’Équipe, Mbappé said: “Everyone has always seen him as a gifted player. In contrast, everyone has always seen me