Ballon d’Or shortlist: Dembélé, Mbappé, Kane, Messi, Yamal lead star-studded race

The race for the 2026 Ballon d'Or is officially underway, featuring a dazzling array of talent. Defending champion Ousmane Dembélé is set to clash with fierce rivals like Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and the legendary Lionel Messi. Meanwhile, the women's award faces a shift in dynamics following Aitana Bonmatí's absence. The winners will be announced during a glamorous ceremony in London on October 26.

from Times of India https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/ballon-dor-2026-shortlist-revealed-dembl-mbapp-kane-messi-and-yamal-lead-star-studded-race-for-footballs-biggest-prize/articleshow/133933488.cms