2026 Ballon d’Or: He’s The Best – Courtois Names Player To Win Award

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has backed his teammate, Kylian Mbappe, to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or award.

Courtois made his choice during an interview with Onda Cero’s Radioestadio Noche, where he described Mbappe as the best player in the world during the period under review.

The Belgian goalkeeper also explained that the Ballon d’Or should primarily recognise individual performance rather than simply being awarded to the player who won the most trophies.

“The Ballon d’Or should be for who has been the best player in the world this year, not necessarily who won the most trophies,” Courtois said.

When asked who he believes should win the prestigious individual award, Courtois gave a direct answer, saying: “For me, it is Mbappe.”

Mbappe is among the 30 players nominated for this year’s Ballon d’Or. The French forward has continued to attract attention for his performances and individual contributions.

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The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 26, when the winner of the award will officially be announced.