EXPLAINER: Breaking down the criteria for the 2026 Ballon d’Or

Momentum is building around the 2026 Ballon d’Or award ceremony, as the criteria have become a major talking point following the release of the nomination list. France Football has officially unveiled the nominees for the various categories of the 2026 Ballon d’Or, set to be hosted in London. Accredited voters across the world will cast their ballots to decide the ultimate winners based on defined standards. For the first time since 2019, the Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held outside the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. This year’s festivities head to London, England, on October 26, 2026, to honor inaugural Ballon d’Or winner Stanley Matthews. Full list of 2026 Ballon d’Or nominations The most talked-about category is the Men’s Best Player, with Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and others leading the charge as contenders. This article highlights the criteria for selecting the ultimate men's and women's best player. Individual Performances, Decisive and Impressive Character Since the accolade rewards players based on their individual performances, emphasis is placed on how a particular player performed during the year under review. This includes a player’s contributions throughout the season, how often they step up in high-pressure moments, score crucial goals, and provide vital assists. A player’s ability to control and influence the outcome of big games and propel their team forward is highly considered. Collective Performance This criterion evaluates the number of titles a player helped their team win during the season and the value of those titles. It considers achievements such as league titles, the Champions League, and major international competitions like the World Cup, Euros, AFCON, or other laurels. It is not just about winning trophies, but also about how influential the player was in clinching them by excelling and being one of the standout performers in the team. This gives an advantage to players who won heavyweight titles and rose to the occasion when it mattered most. Class and Fair Play A player’s behavior on and off the pitch is another factor journalists consider when casting their votes. This includes the number of yellow and red cards received during the season and how the player reacted in such circumstances. It also takes into account how a player treats and interacts with teammates, referees, and opponents in controversial moments, as well as showing empathy to injured opponents or admitting to intentional fouls. This factor often comes into play when two players from the same team excel and are neck-and-neck in the voting process. SB/JKB “We Won’t Allow It!” – Accra Turf Club Chairman Fights to Save Ghana’s Horse Racing Source: www.ghanaweb.com
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