Ballon d'Or 2026: Lamine Yamal, Spain rallies behind the Barça prodigy

As the verdict draws near, the race for the 2026 Ballon d'Or intensifies. In Spain, the choice seems already made by some in the press and prominent figures in football: Lamine Yamal is destined to win the prestigious trophy. The young FC Barcelona winger is enjoying growing support, as his candidacy is bolstered by a particularly impressive season.

The Catalan daily Sport clearly states its preference and believes that Lamine Yamal has all the qualities to succeed the previous winners. His performances for Barça, as well as with the Spanish national team, have solidified his status among the top contenders.

The Barcelona player can count on some top-level support. Hansi Flick, Deco, Joan Laporta, and Luis de la Fuente have all publicly declared their support for the Catalan number 10. Barça's sporting director, Deco, was even categorical, stating that there is "no discussion" surrounding Yamal's candidacy. Flick, for his part, believes that his performances speak for themselves and that everyone can see he deserves the Ballon d'Or.

Barça goes on the offensive

According to AS, FC Barcelona has decided to intensify its communication efforts surrounding its young star in order to influence the race for the trophy. The Catalan club intends to highlight Lamine Yamal's performances and impact as the vote approaches, given the particularly fierce competition, notably from Kylian Mbappé.

And on the pitch, Yamal continues to bolster his candidacy. In the victory against Feyenoord, he once again distinguished himself with a goal and two assists, while wearing the captain's armband and becoming the youngest player to hold this position in the modern history of Barça.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the young Spanish international already has five goals and two assists in five matches this season. These statistics further strengthen an already particularly impressive case.

With the Ballon d'Or ceremony just weeks away, the message is clear: Barça, its directors, its coach and a significant part of Spanish football want to see Lamine Yamal reach the pinnacle of world football.