Ballon d’Or 2026: Three players ahead of Harry Kane to win award – Didi Hamann

Former Bayern Munich and Liverpool midfielder, Didi Hamann has stated that three players are currently ahead of striker Harry Kane in the race to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. In an interview with Andy’s Bet Club, quoted by Bavarian Football Works, Hamann made it clear that he doubts Kane will be awarded the prestigious individual accolade this year. When asked about Kane's chances, Hamann remarked, "Does Harry Kane deserve to win the Ballon d’Or? I’d be surprised, to be honest."

Hamann acknowledged Kane's goal-scoring prowess, but argued that his performance in crucial matches was lacking. He pointed out that in the Champions League, the semifinal was Kane's final match. Additionally, Hamann noted that in the World Cup, Kane failed to score after the round of 32, with his last goal in open play coming against Congo in the round of 32. Hamann concluded, "I’m not sure that is enough to win a Ballon d’Or; I think there are two or three contenders who are ahead of him."

Kane is expected to compete with Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.