Sports
Spain Dominates Ballon d'Or Shortlists as Omissions Draw Criticism
September 10, 2026 at 10:05 PM
Coverage
16 reports · over 73 hours
France Football has announced the 2026 Ballon d'Or candidates, with Spanish players and coaches dominating the shortlists ahead of the October ceremony in London.
- France Football published the 30 Ballon d'Or nominees plus shortlists of 10 goalkeepers and five coaches for the ceremony on October 26 in London.
- Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said a Spanish player deserves the award this year, that Lamine Yamal could win it now or later, and that Mikel Oyarzabal was wrongly omitted.
- Barcelona president Joan Laporta said Yamal's nomination is fully deserved, describing him as a player of exceptional quality who will deliver much in coming seasons.
- Former Barcelona sporting director Deco called the exclusion of Pedri and Raphinha from the nominees "a world scandal."
Latest developments
- Sep 10 — Laporta has expressed regret over Raphinha's absence from the shortlist, calling Champions League success the club's main goal this season.
- Sep 10 — Julián Quiñones has received his first nomination after a 33-goal Saudi Pro League season, becoming only the second Mexican ever nominated.
- Sep 10 — Mbappé has dismissed criticism over his defensive role, saying a player who scores goals is never a problem for his team.















