Ballon d’Or 2026 sees Lamine Yamal defy doubts about his age

In London, on October 26 next year, the 2026 Ballon d’Or trophy will be presented. Lamine Yamal, 19, is among the very serious candidates. The Spanish, already world champion with the Roja, is running a campaign similar to that of Kylian Mbappé.

Like Kylian Mbappé, the young Spanish international does not hold back on statements. He claims that his level has already placed him for a long time among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or. This ambition fuels the debates around his age.

Bold statements

“It’s not only this year that I am at a level that allows me to win the Ballon d’Or, but I have been for quite some time. Everyone knows it,” Yamal said in an interview with the Guardian.

According to the FC Barcelona player, his young age could hinder his rise. He notes that the trophy presentation will take place on October 26 in London, a deadline that leaves little respite.

Yamal fears his 19 years will undermine his Ballon d'Or chances

On July 13, less than a week before lifting the World Cup with the Roja, Yamal blew out his 19th candle. This passage into adulthood coincides with his meteoric rise.

“People say: ‘Lamine will get it one day, so maybe someone else this time…’. I just have to win, win and win, and the moment will come when there will be no doubt left,” continues the native of Esplugues de Llobregat.

By way of comparison, Neymar seemed destined for the Ballon d’Or from a very young age, but he never won one. In his era, the competition from Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo was extremely tough.