Ballon d’Or shortlist: Dembélé, Mbappé, Kane, Messi, Yamal lead star-studded race

The race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or is officially underway, featuring a dazzling array of talent. Defending champion Ousmane Dembélé is set to clash with fierce rivals like Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and the legendary Lionel Messi. Meanwhile, the women’s award faces a shift in dynamics following Aitana Bonmatí’s absence. The winners will be announced during a glamorous ceremony in London on October 26.