Harry Kane remains the frontrunner for the 2026 Ballon d'Or at 13/8 with Betfair, despite England's semi-final exit, after Spain defeated Argentina in a contentious World Cup final. Rodri, who captained Spain to victory and won the Golden Ball as tournament's best player, is at 9/2 to claim the individual prize for a second time.
Spain's World Cup triumph
An extra-time strike from substitute Ferran Torres secured Spain a 1-0 win over Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The match was marred by ill-tempered play, with Argentina's Enzo Fernandez sent off in the 93rd minute and Leandro Paredes also dismissed for violent conduct after the final whistle. Rodri lifted the trophy alongside his teammates, celebrating a hard-fought victory.
Individual awards at the tournament
Rodri was awarded the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament. Paul Cubarsi was named best young player, Unai Simon claimed the Golden Glove, and Kylian Mbappe won the Golden Boot as top scorer for the second time. The distribution of these accolades fueled debate over potential Ballon d'Or candidates.
Ballon d'Or odds and contenders
According to Betfair, the leading contenders are: Harry Kane (13/8), Lamine Yamal (9/4), Lionel Messi (11/4), Kylian Mbappe (7/2), Rodri (9/2), Ousmane Dembele (14/1), Jude Bellingham (14/1), Michael Olise (20/1), Erling Haaland (22/1), Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (28/1), Declan Rice (28/1), Vitinha (28/1), Fabian Ruiz (33/1), Vinicius Jr. (40/1), Bruno Fernandes (50/1), and Desire Doue (50/1). The award will be decided based on performances from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026, with the ceremony in October 2026.
Betfair spokesperson comments
Betfair spokesperson James Mackie said: 'Rodri reminded the world why he was once considered the best in the world when winning the World Cup on Sunday. Two years after he won the award, the midfielder has shortened from 100/1 into 9/2 to claim the top individual prize this year. Harry Kane remains the favourite for the prize, with the England striker 13/8 after scoring 72 goals for club and country last season. He is ahead of Lamine Yamal (9/4) and Kylian Mbappe (7/2). Lionel Messi’s World Cup was a reminder to the world of his GOAT credentials and he has shortened from 66/1 into 11/4 after steering Argentina to the final.'
Rodri's journey back from injury
Rodri won the Ballon d'Or two years ago, a decision that led Real Madrid to boycott the ceremony, just a month after he tore his ACL in a Premier League match against Arsenal. After Spain's World Cup win, Rodri said: 'Individual titles are secondary for me. These past two years have been tough, a time of growth and self-belief. I hit rock bottom at one of the toughest points in my career, and I managed to pull myself back up. There’s someone helping me from above.' He also praised Argentina: 'It’s true they didn’t create many chances, but it was difficult for us to hurt them. They’re a team that speaks for itself; they’ve made history in their own way, with the Copa America, with the World Cup, reaching another final. Incredible achievement.'
