With the 2026 World Cup barely over, the first trends for the Ballon d'Or are already beginning to emerge. According to the latest odds from bookmakers, Harry Kane is now considered the frontrunner to win football's most prestigious individual award. The English striker, who had a very prolific season with his club and a solid World Cup despite England's fourth-place finish, currently tops the predictions. This ranking could still change in the coming months, but it reflects the current perception of specialist betting operators.
Lamine Yamal, Mbappé and Messi complete the top of the rankings
Behind Harry Kane are several of the biggest stars in world football. Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal, fresh from winning the World Cup with Spain, is among the leading contenders after an exceptional tournament that confirmed his status as a global phenomenon. Kylian Mbappé also remains in the running. Despite France's elimination in the semi-finals and their defeat to England in the third-place match, the French captain finished the World Cup with another brace and broke the record for the most goals scored in the competition's history. Lionel Messi He is also among the favorites. The Argentinian led the Albiceleste to the final of the 2026 World Cup, where they lost to Spain after extra time. At 39, the Argentinian captain continues to compete with the best players in the world.
A race that has only just begun
These estimates are obviously not an official ranking. Bookmakers regularly adjust their odds based on player performances, club results, European competitions, and trophies won during the season. The Ballon d'Or is awarded by a jury of international journalists, who take into account individual performances, team achievements, and the overall level of play throughout the season. The coming months, marked in particular by the start of leagues and European competitions, could significantly alter the current hierarchy. For now, Harry Kane appears to be the favorite according to bookmakers' predictions, ahead of Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi in what promises to be a very open race.
