Luis Figo names seven contenders for 2026 Ballon d’Or award

Real Madrid legend Luis Figo has identified seven players capable of winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or: Rodri, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise. Speaking to Madrid Universal via Mundo Deportivo, Figo said there are three or four clear favourites, highlighting a Spaniard who won the World Cup—either Lamine Yamal or Rodri—as top candidates.

Figo also noted Mbappé and Messi’s strong performances, suggested a PSG player like Dembélé could be among the favourites, and added Olise or Kane, who have had excellent seasons. He acknowledged the field is deep, with plenty of contenders this year.

For Nigerian football fans following the race, this list shapes expectations and debate ahead of the ceremony. None of the mentioned players are African, raising questions about continental representation in elite individual awards. Will an African breakthrough come soon, or will European dominance continue? Which of these seven do you believe deserves the award based on their 2025‑26 season, and why?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/01/ballon-dor-2026-luis-figo-names-seven-who-can-win-award-this-year/