The 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings have seen a notable shift following the recently concluded UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal.
Kai Havertz had initially put Arsenal ahead, striking early in the 6th minute with a decisive opener at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest.
However, PSG responded in the second half when Ousmane Dembélé converted from the spot to bring the game level, sending the contest into extra time after a tightly contested finish to regular time.
With neither side able to find a breakthrough in extra time, the final was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, where PSG held their nerve to win 4–3.
The French champions’ triumph secured back-to-back Champions League titles, making them only the second team after Real Madrid to successfully defend the trophy.
The Latest 2026 Ballon D’or Rankings After The UCL Final:
1, Ousmane Dembele
Ousmane Dembélé secured the 2025 Ballon d’Or following a standout treble-winning campaign with Paris Saint-Germain, edging out Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal.
The French forward has maintained his high level of performance, playing a crucial role as PSG clinched the Ligue 1 title and successfully defended their UEFA Champions League crown.
He is also expected to be a key figure for France at the 2026 World Cup, where his influence will be vital to their ambitions.
2. Harry Kane
Harry Kane has arguably established himself as one of the world’s leading strikers since his 2023 move to Bayern Munich, finally ending his long wait for major silverware after leaving Tottenham Hotspur.
He has remained a standout figure in European football this season, playing a key role in Bayern Munich’s league triumph while also helping the club reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
A central figure in Thomas Tuchel’s plans for the World Cup squad, Kane is widely regarded as a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or.
3, Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal finished as runner-up in the 2025 Ballon d’Or after an outstanding 2024/25 campaign with FC Barcelona. He has continued his impressive form into the current season, playing a major role in Barcelona’s La Liga triumph.
Although Barcelona were knocked out in the Champions League quarter-finals, his performances have kept him among the leading contenders for football’s top individual awards. He is also expected to be a key figure for Spain national football team at the upcoming World Cup.
4. Michael Olise
Michael Olise has been in exceptional form this season, thriving in his second year at Bayern Munich after his move from Crystal Palace in the summer of 2024.
He has delivered an impressive output, averaging close to a goal contribution per match and playing a key role in Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga title success.
Olise is also included in Didier Deschamps’ squad for France ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
5. Declan Rice
Declan Rice has been Arsenal’s most consistent and influential performer this season, playing a key role in guiding the club to end their 22-year wait for a Premier League title.
However, their pursuit of a first UEFA Champions League crown continues after falling short in their second final appearance against PSG.
He remains an important figure for England as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aiming to win their first global title since 1966.
