Kane, Haaland, Messi on Ballon d’Or shortlist, Vozinha gets Yashin nomination
Cape Verde's Vozinha was nominated for the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper, after his standout World Cup performances.
Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi have all been named on the 30-man shortlist for the 2026 Men's Ballon d'Or, according to France Football. Kane, who had an outstanding season with both Bayern Munich and England, scored 73 goals in 65 matches for his club and country. He contributed to securing a treble of Bundesliga, German Cup, and German Super Cup for Bayern Munich, as well as leading England to the World Cup semi-finals.
Haaland, meanwhile, netted 58 goals in 64 games for Manchester City and Norway, while Messi contributed with 75 goals in 49 matches for Inter Miami and Argentina, who reached the World Cup final. Other players on the shortlist include Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Lamine Yamal. Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo, despite winning the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr, was not included in the shortlist.
On the women's side, Ewa Pajor, Alexia Putellas, and Khadija "Bunny" Shaw have all been nominated. Cape Verde's Vozinha has been nominated for the Yashin award, which recognizes the best goalkeeper, after his impressive performances during the World Cup helped his country advance from the group stage. He will compete against Unai Simon of Spain and Emi Martinez of Argentina for the final spot among the 10 nominees.
The 70th edition of the Ballon d'Or will take place in London on October 26, marking the first time the ceremony is being held in the city as a tribute to Stanley Matthews, the inaugural recipient of the award.
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