Kane, Bellingham, Rice Lead 2026 Ballon d'Or Nominee List

The 2026 Men's Ballon d'Or nominee list has been revealed, with England internationals Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice all included, according to BBC. The announcement, made public on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, also features Erling Haaland, as confirmed by Manchester City's official channels, and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes, per the club.

BBC reports that the trio of English players are among the contenders for football's top individual prize. Sky Sports adds that Cristiano Ronaldo is notably absent from this year's selection. The Guardian also confirms Kane's nomination, alongside Alessia Russo, who appears on the women's award list.

Club announcements have trickled in alongside the main reveal. Manchester City highlighted Haaland's inclusion, while Manchester United celebrated Fernandes's spot. These confirmations align with the broader nominee roster reported by multiple outlets, though the full 30-man shortlist has not been detailed in the available coverage.

ballon d'or

The absence of Ronaldo marks a shift from recent years, as noted by Sky Sports. Meanwhile, the strong English presence—led by Kane, Bellingham, and Rice—reflects their continued prominence at the highest level of European football. Kane's nomination follows another prolific season, while Bellingham and Rice have been key figures for their respective clubs.

The winner will be determined by a jury of international journalists, with the ceremony expected later this year. As the vote unfolds, attention will turn to whether any of the English nominees can break the recent dominance of other contenders, or if Haaland or Fernandes can claim the prize.