Only two African footballers have made the 30-man shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Senegal’s Sadio Mané representing the continent in the prestigious individual award.
France Football unveiled the nominees on Tuesday, September 8, with the announcement confirming a limited African presence in the men’s main category. Hakimi and Mané will now compete against some of the biggest names in world football for the prize.
Hakimi enters the race after another standout campaign with Paris Saint-Germain. The Morocco international has established himself as one of the world’s leading attacking full-backs and was also recognised among the nominees for the 2025 CAF African Player of the Year award, which he won.
Mané, meanwhile, earns his place after another productive season with Al-Nassr. The Senegal star remains one of Africa’s most decorated modern footballers and has previously finished among the leading contenders for major individual awards.
Their inclusion is significant for African football, particularly after several prominent names missed out. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman were among the high-profile African players not included in the 2026 top 30.
The limited representation also comes despite strong African performances at club and international level. Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, however, received recognition in the Yashin Trophy category after an impressive World Cup campaign.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlist is led by major contenders including Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal and reigning winner Ousmane Dembélé. Kane produced 73 goals across club and country, while Messi contributed 75 goals and assists for Inter Miami and Argentina.
The Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place in London on October 26. The event will mark the 70th anniversary of the award, first won by England legend Stanley Matthews in 1956.
