The Ballon d’Or 2026 nominees have been announced, setting the stage for another major battle for football’s most prestigious individual prize. Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal are among the biggest names included in the 30-player shortlist. Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees: Messi Makes His Return Lionel Messi's inclusion is one of the biggest talking points from this year's shortlist. The Argentine superstar, who has already won the Ballon d’Or eight times, is back among the nominees and will