Sadio Mané, Achraf Hakimi Lead African Stars in 2026 Ballon d’Or Nominations
The 2026 Ballon d'Or nominations reveal a strong African presence across multiple categories, highlighting a historic year for the continent's football. Sadio Mané and Achraf Hakimi are shortlisted for the men's prize, while Vozinha earns a Yashin Trophy nod, reflecting Africa's growing global influence after a successful 2026 World Cup.
Senegal forward Sadio Mané has earned a place on the 30-man shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, marking one of only two African representatives in the men’s category. The Al-Nassr star’s nomination recognises another significant year at club and international level, with his continued importance to Senegal adding to his credentials. Mané will compete against football’s biggest names, including Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and defending winner Ousmane Dembélé.
Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi joins Mané on the men’s shortlist after another standout campaign. Hakimi played a key role in PSG’s success and has continued to establish himself as one of the most influential attacking full-backs in world football. His nomination further underlines the growing individual recognition of African players at the highest level, coming after his 2025 CAF African Player of the Year award.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has also secured a nomination for the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the best male goalkeeper. His recognition follows Cape Verde’s historic 2026 World Cup campaign, in which the nation progressed beyond the group stage on its tournament debut. Vozinha is one of four African goalkeepers nominated, alongside Morocco’s Yassine Bounou, Senegal’s Édouard Mendy and other global contenders for the award.
Zambia forward Barbra Banda completes another major part of Africa’s representation among the headline individual awards, earning a place on the 30-player women’s Ballon d’Or shortlist alongside Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga. The nominations extend beyond the senior awards, with Ivory Coast’s Yan Diomandé and Algeria’s Ibrahim Maza among the Kopa Trophy nominees for the best young male player.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place at London’s Palladium Theatre on October 26, marking the award’s 70th anniversary and its first ceremony in London.