Haaland makes Ballon d'Or top ten after website leak chaos
Erling Braut Haaland is confirmed among the top ten finalists for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, with the winner to be announced Monday evening in London. The Norwegian striker will not attend the ceremony. The announcement follows chaos when the award's official website briefly published three pre-written winner articles naming Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and Kylian Mbappé, all quickly removed. Organizers dismissed the leak as a mistake, saying articles were prepared for all nominees. Jude Bellingham placed 11th and Vinícius Júnior 17th. Haaland's best previous finish was second in 2023 behind Lionel Messi. Caroline Graham Hansen also made the women's top ten, and Bodø/Glimt is nominated for best club. The remaining male finalists include Mbappé, Yamal, Messi, Kane, and Rodri.