Gerard Pique names Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Rodri as his Ballon d’Or favourites

Gerard Pique has selected Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Rodri as his three preferred candidates for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, leaving out any Barcelona player as his top choice despite including Yamal in his list.

The former Barcelona and Spain defender revealed his selections as anticipation builds ahead of the announcement of this year’s winner. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on 26 October.

Asked about his three favourites for the prestigious individual prize, Pique said: “For me, the three favourites are Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Rodri.”

His choices come as speculation increases over who will win the award, with several of the world’s leading players involved in a closely contested race.

Kane’s inclusion provides further recognition for the England striker after an impressive season with Bayern Munich. Yamal, meanwhile, is regarded as one of the leading contenders and is the only Barcelona player named among Pique’s three selections.

Rodri, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, has also returned to Pique’s list after leading Spain to victory at the 2026 World Cup.

Pique, who spent many years at Barcelona and won several major honours with the club, was speaking in comments reported by Daily Sport.

The winner in London will succeed Ousmane Dembele, who claimed the award last year.