Favourite Kane makes Ballon d'Or shortlist

What the report says

Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has been named on the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, according to BBC Sport Football, where he is described as the early favourite for the men’s award. He is one of three England players included, alongside Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham and Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice.

The BBC report says the shortlist also features several other leading names from European and world football, including Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr, and Arsenal defenders Gabriel and William Saliba. Paris St-Germain have the largest representation on the list, with nine players nominated before taking into account new signing Ferran Torres.

BBC Sport noted that the award is marking its 70th anniversary, having been created by France Football in 1956. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on 26 October. The article says the venue has been chosen as a tribute to former England player Sir Stanley Matthews, who won the inaugural Ballon d’Or.

For context, the Ballon d’Or is one of the sport’s most closely watched individual honours, and nominations often reflect a player’s club and international form over the previous season. In Kane’s case, the BBC highlighted his strong goal return across club and country as part of the case for his inclusion.