Temwa Chawinga and Barbra Banda nominated for 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or

Temwa Chawinga of Malawi and Barbra Banda of Zambia have been named among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or. The inclusion of both players provides Africa with two contenders for the prestigious individual award organized by France Football.

Chawinga, a forward for the Kansas City Current, has secured a place on the shortlist for the second consecutive year. Her recent accolades include the 2025 NWSL MVP award and the 2026 WAFCON Golden Boot. Banda, who plays for Orlando Pride, also receives recognition for her outstanding performances at both the club and international levels.

The nominations highlight the growing global profile of African women’s football, following Malawi’s recent runner-up finish at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.