Lamine Yamal, who recently helped Spain secure the 2026 World Cup, is emerging as a strong candidate for this year's Ballon d’Or award. At just 19 years old, a victory would make him the youngest player ever to receive the prestigious honour.
Top Five Youngest Ballon d’Or Winners
- Ronaldo Nazário (21 years, 92 days) - The Brazilian striker remains the youngest winner, clinching the award in 1997 after an extraordinary season with 47 goals in 49 matches and several club trophies.
- Michael Owen (22 years, 4 days) - Owen won in 2001 following Liverpool’s UEFA Cup, FA Cup, and League Cup successes, becoming the first English player to win since 1979.
- Lionel Messi (22 years, 160 days) - Messi’s first Ballon d’Or came in 2009 after a treble-winning season with Barcelona, marking the start of his record eight awards.
- George Best (22 years, 212 days) - The Northern Irishman won in 1968 after scoring 32 goals and helping Manchester United win their first European Cup.
- Oleg Blokhin (23 years, 55 days) - The Soviet forward claimed the 1975 award, becoming the first Ukrainian and second Soviet player to win the Ballon d’Or.
Yamal’s rise has intensified the competition this year, with established stars such as Harry Kane, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappe also vying for the coveted prize. The Ballon d’Or voting process involves journalists from around the world selecting the player who has demonstrated outstanding performance and influence throughout the season.
