Who will win the Ballon d'Or? Spain's World Cup triumph changes everything

Published : Thursday, 23 July, 2026 at 10:18 PM

Observer Online Report

Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph has dramatically reshaped the race for football's most prestigious individual prize, the Ballon d'Or. While Spain stars Rodri and Lamine Yamal have emerged as the leading contenders following their World Cup heroics, Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, and Ousmane Dembélé remain firmly in contention ahead of the award ceremony on October 26.

Spain’s World Cup triumph reshapes Ballon d'Or race: Rodri and Yamal lead, Where do Messi and Mbappé stand?

With the curtain falling on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, attention has swiftly shifted to the Ballon d'Or, football's most coveted individual honour. Spain's World Cup victory has significantly altered the landscape of the race, with midfield maestro Rodri and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal now considered the frontrunners.

According to Spanish outlet Marca, the duo has surged to the top of the Ballon d'Or rankings after playing pivotal roles in Spain's triumphant campaign.

Rodri's remarkable return

After overcoming a long-term injury, the 30-year-old Rodri returned in spectacular fashion, orchestrating Spain's midfield throughout the tournament. His outstanding performances earned him the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

The Manchester City star also set new single-World Cup records for the most touches, completed passes, and successful progressive passes since detailed statistical tracking began, underlining his dominance in midfield.

Yamal's dream season

At just 19, Lamine Yamal has enjoyed a sensational campaign for both club and country. The Barcelona winger contributed 24 goals and 17 assists, helping the Catalan giants win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup.

He carried that form into the World Cup, leading the tournament in successful dribbles while playing a decisive role in Spain's title-winning run, strengthening his case for a first Ballon d'Or.

Messi still chasing history

Despite Argentina's defeat to Spain in the final, Lionel Messi remains firmly in the Ballon d'Or conversation. The 39-year-old produced another outstanding World Cup, scoring eight goals and providing four assists to guide Argentina to the final.

Although the loss may have dented his chances of claiming a record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or, Messi still has the opportunity to become the oldest player ever to win the award.

Kane, Mbappé and Dembélé in the mix

Harry Kane also remains a strong contender after scoring 36 goals for Bayern Munich, leading the club to a domestic double. He added six goals at the World Cup and surpassed Gary Lineker's all-time England World Cup scoring record.

Kylian Mbappé finished as the tournament's top scorer with 10 goals, winning the Golden Boot. However, Real Madrid's lack of major silverware this season has weakened his overall Ballon d'Or credentials.

Defending Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé is also among the leading candidates. The Paris Saint-Germain forward won the UEFA Champions League and netted six World Cup goals, including a memorable hat-trick.

Is the World Cup enough?

History suggests that winning the World Cup alone does not guarantee Ballon d'Or success. Voters consider performances across the entire season, including club achievements, individual statistics, consistency, and international success.

Still, following Spain's World Cup triumph, Rodri and Lamine Yamal have clearly emerged as the two names generating the strongest momentum in the race.

The winner of the 2026 Ballon d'Or will be announced on October 26 at a glittering ceremony in London, where football's next individual king will finally be crowned.

-HIS