Roberto Carlos backs Mbappé as favourite for 2026 Ballon d’Or
In the bright atrium of the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras, the second day of the Portugal Football Summit buzzed with anticipation as former world‑cup winner Roberto Carlos, Real Madrid ambassador, sat down with Diario AS. The legendary left‑back was asked which player should claim the 2026 Ballon d’Or, and his answer cut through the chatter.
Roberto Carlos’ clear favourite
Without hesitation, Carlos declared, “Who should win the Ballon d’Or? Kylian Mbappé.” His endorsement placed the French striker at the top of the debate, ahead of other giants such as Lionel Messi and the teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Beyond the pick – praise for Portuguese greats
During his role as master of ceremonies, Carlos also lauded Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting the Portuguese star “can play another ten years” thanks to his fitness and enduring joy in wearing the national shirt. He recalled the quirky criteria of the Galácticos era, noting how Ronaldo Nazário “won the Ballon d’Or in 90 minutes” after his 2002 World Cup final heroics.
The former Brazil international also highlighted the tactical intelligence of Zinedine Zidane and praised Ronaldo’s current business ventures, underscoring the blend of on‑field brilliance and off‑field acumen that defines a Ballon d’Or winner.
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In addition to Mbappé, the summit’s programme listed a long roster of nominees: Jude Bellingham, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Cucurella, Ousmane Dembélé, Luis Díaz, Bruno Fernandes, Erling Haaland, Gabriel, Harry Kane, Achraf Hakimi, Lamine Yamal, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Marquinhos, Sadio Mané, Lautaro Martínez, Nuno Mendes, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise, Joao Neves, Willian Pacho, Julián Quiñones, Declan Rice, Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, Ferrán Torres, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Vinícius Jr and Vitinha.
While the list spans clubs from Real Madrid to Inter Miami, Carlos’ remarks gave a clear signal that, in his view, the French forward’s blend of speed, skill and consistency makes him the standout candidate for the coveted award.
His comments, delivered amid laughter and nostalgia, added a personal touch to the summit, reminding attendees that the Ballon d’Or remains as much about narrative as statistics.
As the Portugal Football Summit continues, the debate sparked by Carlos’ endorsement is likely to shape media narratives and fan discussions across Europe and beyond, keeping the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or firmly in the spotlight.