Ballon d’Or Rankings Revealed: Mbappé Leads as Yamal Falls Behind, Messi Update Emerges

According to reports by Daily Post on Tuesday October 13, 2026, Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has emerged as the leading name in a Ballon d’Or ranking published by French sports newspaper L’Équipe, while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal has surprisingly fallen outside the top three ahead of the awards ceremony scheduled for October 26 in London.

The ranking places Mbappé ahead of Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and England captain Harry Kane, who occupy second and third positions respectively. The latest poll has drawn attention because Yamal, who has been considered one of the leading contenders for the prestigious individual award, is not among the three highest-ranked players in the survey.

The ranking was reported by beIN Sports based on the poll published by L’Équipe. However, it is important to note that the survey does not represent the official Ballon d’Or voting results, and the final winner will be determined through the award’s established voting process.

The latest development comes as attention also turns to Lionel Messi, who is reportedly expected to attend the ceremony and present the Ballon d’Or trophy to the winner. Gulf News reported on Tuesday October 13 that the Argentine legend had been given a special role at the event, although the organisers have not confirmed the reported arrangement in their official announcements.

Messi’s potential involvement would add further interest to this year’s ceremony. The Inter Miami forward has won the Ballon d’Or a record eight times and remains one of the most decorated players in the award’s history. He is also among the 30 nominees for the 2026 edition after an eventful season with club and country.

The ceremony is scheduled for Monday October 26 at the London Palladium Theatre, marking the first time the Ballon d’Or event will be held in London. The 2026 edition also celebrates the award’s 70th anniversary.

With the ceremony approaching, Mbappé’s position at the top of the L’Équipe poll will fuel debate among football supporters. Yamal’s absence from the top three is another talking point, while Kvaratskhelia and Kane will also attract attention as the contenders await the final announcement.

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