Kane Mbappe Ballon d'Or
Kane Mbappe Ballon d'Or
The great and the good of the footballing world descend on the West End this evening as the London Palladium plays host to the 2026 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony. The best footballer in the world over the past year will be crowned here, with the prolific Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane hotly tipped to become the first Englishman to win this coveted title since Michael Owen in 2001.
He faces some mighty stiff competition, though. Kylian Mbappe is right behind him in the bookies’ rankings, and Lamine Yamal also breathing down his neck. The talented young Spaniard was cruelly pipped last season by Ousmane Dembele. Also in the running are Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Rodri and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Arsenal, of course, are also well represented. William Saliba, Gabriel, and Declan Rice will all hope to add one more title to the Colney trophy cabinet this evening at an awards ceremony staged in their own backyard. Follow the awards ceremony live below with Standard Sport’s dedicated blog, complete with expert insight and analysis from Sam Tabuteau and Matt Verri.
Ballon d'Or 2026 LIVE
The most prestigious award in the sport will be handed out in London, as the capital hosts the ceremony for the first time in its 70-year history.
Harry Kane is the odds-on favourite to pick up the prize, but faces stiff competition from Kylian Mbappe. Lamine Yamal will also hold hope of a shock win.
Arrivals are due to arrive at the London Palladium from 6pm, which the ceremony due to begin at 8pm. Follow every moment with us!
2026 Ballon d'Or, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal
2026 Ballon d'Or, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal