2026 Ballon d’Or: Joao Felix Names Player To Win Award Ahead Of Harry Kane, Mbappe

Al Nassr forward Joao Felix has said Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Felix made his choice known during an interview with Spanish newspaper AS, where he explained why he believes Yamal should receive the prestigious individual award.

The Portuguese forward pointed to Yamal’s performances and his success with Spain as key reasons for his decision, particularly the midfielder’s role in helping his country win the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“I have always defended the idea that the Ballon d’Or should go to the player you see and say: this is a star and he deserves for his name to be immortalised in football,” Felix said.

He added that Yamal is the type of player who keeps fans glued to their television screens whenever he plays. “And if there is a player you sit in front of the television and remain glued to the screen to watch, it is Lamine. It is true that Mbappe and Harry Kane had a great season, but Lamine is football.”

Felix also highlighted the importance of winning the World Cup in a year when the tournament is held, arguing that the achievement can play a major role in the Ballon d’Or race.

ALSO READ

• Ballon d’Or 2026: Ex-Liverpool Midfielder Names Big Favourite To Win Award
• 2026 Ballon d’Or: Michael Owen Agrees With Kylian Mbappe On Who Should Win Award

“In addition to that, he won the World Cup, and in World Cup years winning the tournament is extremely important in order to get closer to the Ballon d’Or,” he added.