African football has another reason to celebrate as Achraf Hakimi and Sadio Mané have been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or which is organized by France Football Magazine. The nominations was announced on September 8 2026. For the second time Hakimi and Mane stand as the only two African players on the men’s shortlist.
His nomination is very significant for Moroccan football as Hakimi has become one of the leading figures of Morocco’s golden generation particularly after the country’s historic run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup when Morocco became the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi finals.
For Sadio Mané, the nomination adds another chapter to a career that has already seen him establish himself among Africa’s most accomplished footballers. At the international level Mane remains the heartbeat of Senegal’s national team. This is the 5th time he has been nominated for Ballon d’Or.
The Senegalese player has enjoyed major success throughout his career especially during his time with Liverpool where he became an important part of the team that won the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. Also, he was named Player of the Tournament at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Speaking shortly after the nomination Mané expressed himself:
“The feeling is incredible. I want to thank the fans and the journalists. I know many players could have been on this list, especially from the Saudi Pro League. But this is the vote and I am honoured.”
Having Hakimi and Mané on the 2026 Ballon d’Or nominee list is a very significant one. The presence of the 2 players puts African football directly in the spotlight. The 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlist also features global stars including Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal and reigning winner Ousmane Dembélé.The winner will be revealed at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on October 26 2026.
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