Raphinha backs Lamine Yamal for 2026 Ballon d'Or
Barcelona captain Raphinha has listed three reasons why teammate Lamine Yamal should win the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
In Brief
- •Barcelona captain Raphinha has listed three reasons why teammate Lamine Yamal should win the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
- •Raphinha believes Yamal's combination of individual brilliance and team honors is crucial for winning the award.
- •At least 100 journalists are preparing to submit their final votes to France Football by September 28.
- •Raphinha was excluded from the final 30-man shortlist for the award, while Yamal made the cut.
Why It Matters
Raphinha's endorsement of Lamine Yamal for the 2026 Ballon d'Or highlights the young player's growing influence and potential impact on the award. Yamal's inclusion in the final shortlist, despite Raphinha's exclusion, underscores the competitive nature of the award and the importance of individual statistics and team honors in the voting process. This story provides insight into the criteria used by journalists in determining the Ballon d'Or winner and the role of team captains in supporting their teammates.
Key Details
- Final Vote Submission Deadline
- September 28
- Shortlist Size
- 30
Context & Background
The Ballon d'Or is an annual football award presented by France Football to the best player in the world, determined by a panel of sports journalists from around the world.
Original Reporting & Sources
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