The final list of 30 nominees for the 2026 Men’s ‘Ballon d'Or’ reflects the enduring influence of established figures and, at the same time, the rapid rise of the stars who are currently dominating the scene.

Among the candidates for the ceremony on 26 October in London, a select group stands out for having made it a regular feature of their careers to be shortlisted.

At 39, Lionel Messi tops this longevity ranking with an impressive tally of 17 nominations to his name. His first came in 2006.

In the award’s history, only one footballer has surpassed the Argentine star’s tally: Cristiano Ronaldo, who holds the all-time record of 18 nominations between 2004 and 2022.

Messi is therefore just one nomination away from matching the Portuguese footballer’s historic record.

The 2026 ‘Ballon d'Or’ nominees with the most nominations to date

The dawn of a new era

Just behind Messi’s record, Kylian Mbappé has established himself as the closest active challenger with 9 nominations, demonstrating impeccable consistency at the highest level.

He is closely followed by Harry Kane with 8 appearances, whilst stars of the calibre of Erling Haaland (6), Vinícius Júnior (5), Lautaro Martínez (5) and Sadio Mané (5) maintain their place amongst the elite with more than five nominations to their name.

Rounding off the ranking are established stars of the new era such as Jude Bellingham (4), Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (3), Rodri Hernández (3), Declan Rice (3) and Lamine Yamal (3).

Will any of them win the ‘Ballon d'Or’ at this year’s ceremony?

We’ll find out on 26 October in London.

The countdown has begun...