The first shortlists for the 2026 Ballon d’Or awards have been announced, with the contenders for the Men’s and Women’s Club of the Year prizes revealed
The announcement comes ahead of the main Ballon d’Or ceremony, which is scheduled to take place in London on Monday, October 26
The prestigious awards recognise the best individual and team performances in football, with the shortlists for the major individual categories expected to be unveiled as the announcement process continues
Five clubs have been shortlisted for the Women’s Club of the Year award
Barcelona are among the leading contenders after winning the UEFA Women’s Champions League, while Club América also earned recognition following their success in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup
The shortlist for the Men’s Club of the Year award also features five clubs
Paris Saint-Germain will be looking to retain the award after being recognised last year following their maiden UEFA Champions League triumph
The French giants remain strong contenders after another successful campaign, while Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt have earned a place on the shortlist following their impressive run to the Champions League last 16
The shortlists for the remaining Ballon d’Or categories are expected to be announced as the process continues
They include the Women’s Coach of the Year, Men’s Coach of the Year, Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year, Women’s Young Talent of the Year and Men’s Young Talent of the Year
The main Women’s Ballon d’Or and Men’s Ballon d’Or shortlists will also feature 30 players each
Voting will determine the winners of the individual awards, with the winners set to be crowned at the ceremony in London on October 26