The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony is taking place at the London Palladium, with Harry Kane the odds-on favourite to become the first Englishman to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001.
Bayern Munich striker Kane is hotly tipped for the prize, but faces stiff competition from Kylian Mbappe, who is right behind him in the bookies' rankings. Lamine Yamal is also in contention, having been cruelly pipped last season by Ousmane Dembele.
Contenders and Arsenal Representation
Also in the running are Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Rodri and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Arsenal are well represented, with William Saliba, Gabriel and Declan Rice all hoping to add another title to the club's trophy cabinet at a ceremony staged in their own backyard.
Arrivals at the London Palladium are due from 6pm, as the capital hosts the ceremony for the first time in its 70-year history.
Live Coverage
The London Standard is providing live coverage of the ceremony, with expert insight and analysis from Sam Tabuteau and Matt Verri.
