Manchester United legends Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs have predicted the players they believe will finish in the top three of the 2026 Ballon d’Or award.
The ceremony is scheduled to take place next Monday in London, United Kingdom, with several leading football stars in contention for the prestigious individual honour.
Among the frontrunners are England and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane, France and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham and Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise.
When asked to predict the top three finishers, Giggs placed Yamal in first position, followed by Mbappé in second and Bellingham in third.
Ferdinand, however, tipped Kane to win the award, with Mbappé finishing second and Olise taking third place.
The former Manchester United stars offered contrasting predictions, with Giggs backing Barcelona’s teenage sensation while Ferdinand favoured Bayern Munich striker Kane for the top prize.
Voting for the award has reportedly been completed, with the results already tallied. However, organisers are keeping the final standings secret until the ceremony.
The eventual winner will be revealed at the event, bringing an end to speculation over who will emerge as the world’s best player for 2026.