May 31, 2026
PSG’s successful defence of the UEFA Champions League title has shaken up the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with several PSG stars climbing the rankings while established contenders continue to strengthen their cases ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
With club football concluded and international competition still to come, the battle for football’s most prestigious individual award remains wide open.
Despite Manchester City’s failure to reclaim the Champions League crown, Haaland remains in contention after another prolific campaign. The Norwegian striker registered 51 goals and 10 assists, helping City secure both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup while staying in the Premier League title race until the closing stages.
A lengthy goal drought earlier in the year affected his momentum, but Norway’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup offers him a fresh opportunity to impress voters on the global stage.
