With just a few days to go before the 2026 World Cup final, the race for the Ballon d’Or is more uncertain than ever. While the club season had revealed several favorites, the World Cup has completely reshuffled the deck. Performances on the biggest stage in world football have reignited the debate and placed several players in prime positions to succeed Ousmane Dembélé. More than ever, one question divides fans: should the Ballon d’Or reward the best overall season or the player who made the biggest impact at the World Cup?
Kylian Mbappé is among the big winners of this tournament. After a somewhat underwhelming collective season with Real Madrid, the French forward has found his best form in the national team jersey. With eight goals since the tournament began, he has established himself as his team’s offensive leader. His efficiency, composure in crucial moments, and influence on the game have significantly boosted his candidacy. A victory in the final could make him the top favorite for the Ballon d’Or.
Harry Kane also has an extremely strong case. The English striker shone throughout the season with Bayern Munich, winning several trophies and finishing among Europe’s top scorers. His consistency carried over to the World Cup, where he once again delivered. If England lifts the trophy, Kane could present one of the most convincing individual and collective records of the year.
At 39, Lionel Messi continues to defy time. The Argentine may not have the stats of his best seasons, but his importance to his team’s play remains immense. As a technical and mental leader, he steps up when the pressure is highest. Another World Cup final would further solidify an already exceptional legacy and remind everyone that he can still influence the biggest competitions despite the years.
Behind these three favorites, several outsiders still have real ambitions. Michael Olise dazzles with his creativity and offensive efficiency, while Lamine Yamal could shake up the hierarchy with an exceptional end to the tournament. Erling Haaland remains in the race despite a less impactful World Cup compared to his club season. Meanwhile, Vitinha impresses with his game control after being one of the key players in PSG’s European triumph. Finally, Ousmane Dembélé, the reigning Ballon d’Or holder, still has strong arguments thanks to his major role in Paris’s success.
The debate about the weight of the World Cup resurfaces with each edition. Some observers believe this competition represents the pinnacle of football, and a player who shines there naturally deserves the highest individual honor. Others argue it would be unfair for one month of competition to overshadow nearly ten months of club performances. This clash of viewpoints is already fueling discussions and will likely continue until the winner is announced.
One thing seems certain: the semifinals and final could weigh heavily in the voters’ choices. Every goal, every assist, and every decisive performance will be etched in memory. That’s the power of a World Cup, capable of turning an excellent season into a historic year. So, who deserves the Ballon d’Or 2026: Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise, Erling Haaland, Lamine Yamal, Vitinha, or Ousmane Dembélé? Should the World Cup carry more weight than club performances?
🚨 BREAKING: Ballon d’Or power rankings as of July 2026. @Score90_ pic.twitter.com/JrtxmDxsZr
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) July 3, 2026
