2026 Ballon d’Or: Numbers of nominees, categories confirmed ahead of awards

The organisers of the Ballon d’Or, France Football, have released more details ahead of the 2026 edition of the prestigious awards.

It was confirmed on Monday that the shortlists for all 12 award categories will be unveiled on September 8. The nominated players, coaches and clubs will then be revealed ahead of the main ceremony in London on October 26.

The 2026 Ballon d’Or will feature several individual and team categories, with different numbers of nominees competing for each award.

Here are the 12 categories and number of nominees:

1. Men’s Ballon d’Or – 30 players
2. Women’s Ballon d’Or – 30 players
3. Men’s Young Talent of the Year – 10 players
4. Women’s Young Talent of the Year – 5 players
5. Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year – 10 players
6. Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year – 5 players
7. Men’s Coach of the Year – 5 coaches
8. Women’s Coach of the Year – 5 coaches
9. Men’s Striker of the Year – 10 players
10. Women’s Striker of the Year – 5 players
11. Men’s Club of the Year – 5 clubs
12. Women’s Club of the Year – 5 clubs

ALSO READ

• Ballon d’Or: ‘He Has Talent’ – Saha Names Player Bound To Win Award
• 2026 Ballon d’Or: Organisers Release List Of Nominees In Champions League Squads

The announcement of the shortlists on September 8 will officially begin the countdown to the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, where the winners of the various categories will be crowned.