The Ballon d’Or 2026 award ceremony is just hours away from getting underway, as France Football magazine prepares to announce which footballing superstar will be crowned as their winner this calendar year.
One of the most coveted award ceremonies in world football, several of the biggest names will meet in London, England, marking the first time the event takes place outside of Paris on Monday, October 26 at 8pm, with the winner to be announced at the prestigious event.
Once again, Scotland has a nominee for the awards for the second season running, with Caroline Weir included on the list of potential winners for the women’s trophy. Last year’s men’s winner, Paris Saint-Germain attacker Ousmane Dembele, is once again nominated after a strong season in France, though he faces strong competition for his crown.
Lionel Messi has won a record eight Ballon d’Or awards and is back in the running for the award after missing out last year, while the nominations list is jam-packed with names from Spain following their World Cup triumph in July.
But who is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or award this year? Here are the latest odds for the Ballon d’Or 2026.*
*All odds are offered by SkyBet and are subject to change at any time. Please gamble responsibly.
5. Michael Olise - Bayern Munich
The French winger had an incredible campaign at the Allianz Arena last season, scoring 25 goals and assisting a further 28 in all competitions. Despite his impressive numbers, he is priced at 100/1 for the Ballon d'Or. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
6. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia - Paris Saint-Germain
Nicknamed 'Kvaradona' by his teammates, the playmaker is one of the most talented footballers on the planet and proved to be a key player for Paris Saint-Germain last season, scoring 20 goals and assisting a further 12 in all competitions as the French giants won the Champions League, Ligue 1 and the Super Cup. He is priced at 100/1 to become the first Georgian to win the Ballon d'Or.
7. Erling Haaland - Manchester City
The talismanic striker had a World Cup to remember, as his goals fired Norway to the quarter-finals for the first time in history. He is 100/1 to win the award. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
8. Rodri - Barcelona
Winner of the Golden Ball as Spain won the World Cup this summer, the defensive midfielder proved yet again why he is so important to his international side with a series of outstanding performances at the tournament. He missed out on the title with Manchester City, but was part of the squad that won the League Cup before moving to Barcelona in August. He is priced at 40/1 to win the award for the second time in his career.