Nicolas Pepe backs Pape Gueye for 2026 African Ballon d’Or

Nicolas Pepe has chosen Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye as his favourite to win the 2026 African Ballon d’Or, overlooking Ivory Coast team-mate Yan Diomande despite playing alongside him for the Elephants.

The award will be presented in Lagos, Nigeria, on 7 December, although the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not yet announced the shortlist. Gueye is aiming to succeed Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi, who took the prize previously.

Speaking to DAZN, Pepe said Gueye was a deserving candidate after an outstanding campaign with Villarreal and a major contribution to Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations 2025 run.

“If he wins, it will be totally deserved,” said Pepe.

The 31-year-old Ivory Coast winger, who has won 59 caps and scored 14 international goals, plays alongside Gueye at Villarreal. However, his support went to the 27-year-old Senegal international, who has made 48 appearances for his country and scored seven goals.

Gueye was the only goalscorer in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final, before Senegal were subsequently stripped of the title by CAF in favour of Morocco. He also impressed during the 2026 World Cup.

The former Marseille player scored twice and provided an assist in Senegal’s important group-stage victory over Iraq. He then produced another strong performance in the last-16 tie against Belgium, but was substituted before Senegal went on to lose the match.

Senegal case could decide award

Senegal’s dispute over the Africa Cup of Nations remains central to the award race. Should the Court of Arbitration for Sport rule in Senegal’s favour, Gueye would automatically become the leading contender for the African Ballon d’Or.

If the ruling goes against Senegal, Achraf Hakimi would be well placed to win the award for a second consecutive time.

CAF is yet to reveal the nominees, meaning the final shortlist and the outcome of the Senegal case will shape the contest before the ceremony in Lagos.