2026 Ballon d'Or odds debate

In early July, former England defender Jamie Carragher argued that Harry Kane deserved the 2026 Ballon d’Or, citing his consistent club and international performances, but warned that the award traditionally favours players from World Cup‑winning nations and doubted England’s deep run. He stressed Kane’s importance to England’s hopes while acknowledging the team’s recent unconvincing displays.

Betting markets later listed Kane at 13/8 alongside Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Rodri, with French press noting the absence of a clear favourite after the World Cup. Critics such as Walid Acherchour warned that any decision would be contentious and highlighted Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as possible returnees to the race.

Following England’s elimination from the World Cup, former France star Emmanuel Petit declared Kane’s Ballon d’Or hopes effectively over, arguing that the striker’s impact vanished in the decisive knockout stages of both the Champions League and the tournament. Petit praised Yamal’s World Cup form, Rodri as the tournament’s best player, and Messi’s season with Inter Miami, urging that the award should reflect major titles rather than commercial considerations. The award will be decided by a jury of 100 international journalists.