2026 Ballon d’Or: Fabrizio Romano names top 5, possible winner of award

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed the players he expects to finish among the top five in the 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings ahead of the award ceremony in London.

Romano, who is also one of the co-hosts of the ceremony alongside broadcaster DAZN, shared his predictions while discussing the leading contenders for the prestigious individual award.

The Italian journalist named Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé among his expected top finishers, while also mentioning Lionel Messi as a possible inclusion.

Romano said: “My top five? Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Mbappé, and for 4… 5… Messi has to be there.”

He also identified Bayern Munich striker Kane as his preferred candidate to win this year’s award, based on his assessment of the current situation.

“Harry Kane, as of now, and in my opinion is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or!” Romano stated.

He added: “Things can change, you can hear new whispers… but right now I say he is the favourite.”

ALSO READ

• 2026 Ballon d’Or: Top favourite Kylian Mbappe arrives in London for award
• 2026 Ballon d’Or: Rio Ferdinand, Giggs Name Players To Finish In Top Three Positions

The organisers have already confirmed the official final 10 players in the voting, leaving football fans waiting to discover who will take home the 2026 Ballon d’Or.