The Ballon d’Or has outlined three key criteria that will guide the voting process for the 2026 award, with individual performances, team success and fair play forming the foundation of the decision.
The first criterion focuses on individual performance, with voters expected to consider a player’s overall impact, consistency, and ability to produce decisive moments during the season.
Team success is the second factor. Trophies won will be considered, but the importance of the individual player’s contribution to their team will also play a key role in deciding the final rankings.
The third criterion is fair play, highlighting the importance of a player’s behaviour, respect and professionalism both on and off the pitch. The announcement provides greater clarity on what voters will consider when selecting the world’s best player.
With the 2026 Ballon d’Or race expected to attract intense competition, players will not only need outstanding individual numbers, but also success with their teams and a strong record of sportsmanship.
The question now is still: who has done enough to claim football’s most prestigious individual award in 2026?
