2026 Ballon d’Or: Raphinha Lists Three Reasons Yamal Should Win Award

Barcelona captain Raphinha has explained why he believes his teammate, Lamine Yamal, should win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Raphinha said Yamal has a strong combination of individual performances, team success and the special qualities he shows on the pitch.

The Ballon d’Or winner will be decided by votes from at least 100 journalists around the world, with final votes expected to be submitted to France Football by September 28.

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Raphinha said: “Above all, I believe that winning the Ballon d’Or is about individual statistics, team honors and the magic he has on the pitch. Charisma and everything like this.”

“For me, these are the most important points to win the award. And I think Lamine has them all,” the Barcelona captain added.

Raphinha was not included in the final 30-man shortlist for this year’s award, while Yamal was selected among the nominees.

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Yamal’s inclusion means he remains in contention for the prestigious individual prize, with Raphinha pointing to his statistics, trophies and influence on the pitch as the main reasons he deserves recognition.