The Next 15 Ballon d’Or Winners Predicted (2026–2040) – Ranked

September 26, 2025 Oliver Obel

Football’s future looks incredibly bright, with a new wave of superstars ready to dominate the sport’s biggest individual prize. Based on AI predictions, here are the players expected to lift the Ballon d’Or between 2026 and 2040 – from Mbappé finally claiming glory to Lamine Yamal becoming a four-time winner.

2026 – Kylian Mbappé

Kylian Mbappe — Mikolaj Barbanell / Shutterstock.com

Kylian Mbappé is predicted to finally add the Ballon d’Or to his trophy cabinet. With Real Madrid back at the top of European football, the French superstar’s blistering pace and goal-scoring prowess will make him an unstoppable force. This win will cement his status as the best player of his generation.

2027 – Lamine Yamal

Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal is tipped to become the youngest-ever Ballon d’Or winner. Already compared to Lionel Messi, his dribbling and creativity make him one of the most feared attackers in Europe. 2027 could be the year he officially announces himself as football’s biggest star.

2028 – Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland’s relentless scoring record for Manchester City is expected to finally be rewarded. After breaking goal records across Europe, his Ballon d’Or will likely come once City secure another Champions League title. The Norwegian striker’s dominance in front of goal will make him an easy winner.

2029 – Jude Bellingham

Jude Bellingham’s all-action performances at Real Madrid could see him crowned the world’s best in 2029. The England star’s leadership and knack for big goals will push him to the top of the game. If he delivers international silverware, this award will feel inevitable.

2030 – Lamine Yamal (2nd)

By 2030, Lamine Yamal is expected to collect his second Ballon d’Or. Dominating Spanish and European football at just 18 years old, he will shatter records and redefine what’s possible for young players. This will firmly establish him as a generational talent.

2031 – Victor Osimhen

Victor Osihmen — Ettore Griffoni / Shutterstock.com

Victor Osimhen is tipped to claim the Ballon d’Or after a big move to a European giant. His electric pace and finishing ability will make him the best striker in the world by this stage. This award will be the ultimate reward for his consistent goal-scoring.

2032 – Desire Doué

Désiré Doué — cristiano barni / Shutterstock.com

Paris Saint-Germain’s Desire Doué is expected to rise to superstardom by 2032. The skillful winger’s ability to beat defenders and produce magic moments will make him a Ballon d’Or favorite. His victory will mark the peak of his meteoric rise from Stade Rennais.

2033 – Pedri

Barcelona midfielder Pedri is predicted to finally get the recognition he deserves. At 30 years old, his vision, passing, and intelligence will make him the heartbeat of Barcelona and Spain. His win will prove that midfield maestros can still take the top prize.

2034 – Lamine Yamal (3rd)

Lamine Yamal will continue his domination with a third Ballon d’Or before turning 30. His consistency and ability to deliver in the biggest moments will keep him at the top of the game. By now, comparisons to Messi will be impossible to ignore.

2035 – Rio Ngumoha

Liverpool’s Rio Ngumoha is predicted to fulfill his huge potential by 2035. His technical brilliance and flair will make him one of the most exciting players in the world. This Ballon d’Or win will confirm him as a global superstar.

2036 – Endrick

Real Madrid’s Brazilian sensation Endrick is expected to peak in 2036. After a strong development period, he will become one of the most clinical attackers in football. His Ballon d’Or will be the ultimate reward for his rise to the very top.

2037 – Max Dowman

Arsenal’s Max Dowman is forecast to shine in 2037. The English forward’s elegance and attacking intelligence will take him to world-class status. His Ballon d’Or will be a proud moment for both Arsenal and England supporters.

2038 – Lamine Yamal (4th)

By 2038, Yamal will have won his fourth Ballon d’Or, further cementing his place among the all-time greats. He will still be under 30, leaving plenty of time to chase Messi’s record haul. His sustained dominance will define an entire era of football.

2039 – Geovany Quenda

Chelsea’s Geovany Quenda is predicted to reach the peak of his powers in 2039. The former Sporting CP talent will become a leader for club and country. His Ballon d’Or will mark the culmination of years of development and promise.

2040 – Franco Mastantuono

Real Madrid’s Argentinian gem Franco Mastantuono is expected to be the best player in the world by 2040. His creativity and match-winning ability will make him indispensable for club and country. This award will symbolize the beginning of his reign at the very top of football.