Eight-time winner Lionel Messi and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal have been included among the 30 nominees for the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or.
France Football announced the nominees on Tuesday, with Messi receiving his 17th career nomination.
The 39-year-old Inter Miami and Argentina forward has previously won the prestigious award eight times, in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021 and 2023.
Yamal, 19, earned his third nomination after a standout season in which he helped Spain win the 2026 World Cup, while also claiming the Spanish league title and Super Cup with Barcelona.
Defending champion Ousmane Dembélé of Paris Saint-Germain is also among the nominees.
Other notable names on the list include Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bruno Fernandes, Luis Díaz, Lautaro Martínez, Michael Olise, Sadio Mané and Pau Cubarsí.
The award covers performances during the 2025/26 season, including the 2026 World Cup.
The Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, marking the first time the event will be held outside Paris.
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