By
Arinze Umeweni
Portugal legend Luis Figo has named four players he expects to be in serious contention for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
Speaking to Betfair in an interview reported by Madrid Universal, the former Real Madrid star highlighted Spain midfielder Rodri, France duo Kylian Mbappe and Desire Doue, and Portugal’s Vitinha as top contenders for football’s most prestigious individual award.
On Manchester City’s Rodri, Figo said the Spaniard delivered an impressive World Cup despite not posting big numbers in goals or assists.
“For me, Rodri has had a great World Cup even though, in terms of goals or assists, he hasn’t stood out that much,” Figo stated.
The 2000 Ballon d’Or winner also backed Real Madrid forward Mbappe, pointing to his standout displays for France on the global stage.
“Mbappe and his outstanding World Cup performance will surely put him among the potential winners, too,” he added.
Figo further tipped two PSG stars who helped the French club win the Champions League again.
“And I would certainly include a PSG player who has won the Champions League again. In that regard, I might single out Vitinha and Doue, who have had a great season even though the World Cup didn’t go so well for them, especially for Portugal. I’d put all of them among the contenders,” he said.
With the 2026 World Cup and Champions League campaign expected to shape voting, Figo’s picks have already sparked debate over who leads the race for next year’s Ballon d’Or.
