The list of nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award has been released. Among the nominees are Yassine Bounou, Thibaut Courtois, Joan García, Gregor Kobel, Emiliano Martínez, Édouard Mendy, David Raya, Unai Simón, Matvey Safonov and Vozinha. Various goalkeepers came from numerous countries and clubs, out of whom three are African players. The nominees Bounou, Mendy and Vozinha are the first three nominees ever to come from the same continent since the award was established in 2019.
The nominees were selected for their performances between August 2025 and July 2026. Their club seasons and international campaigns, including the 2026 World Cup, were considered for the award. The voting gives the most importance to individual performances, followed by team achievements, class and fair play. The shortlist includes several familiar names who have regularly featured among the world’s top goalkeepers, as well as Vozinha, who gained major attention after his performances for Cape Verde at the World Cup. The winner will be announced at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on October 26.
Ballon d’Or lands on DAZN as ceremony to be broadcasted globally
The Ballon d’Or ceremony is coming to DAZN, with the sports streaming platform set to broadcast the event live and free for fans in 200 markets around the world. The ceremony will take place in London on October 26, when the biggest names in men’s and women’s football will gather to find out who wins the prestigious awards. DAZN will also provide special coverage and content in the build-up to the ceremony, giving fans more ways to follow the event. The partnership makes the Ballon d’Or more accessible to football fans across the globe.
DAZN Group CEO Shay Segev said, “The Ballon d’Or is one of football’s most iconic events and a celebration of the players who inspire fans all over the world.” He added, “We are delighted to bring the Ballon d’Or back to DAZN and to make it available free of charge to fans in 200 markets globally.” Segev also said the award fits well with DAZN’s football coverage and its aim of bringing fans closer to major sporting moments. DAZN will also be the Global Gold Sponsoring Partner of the Ballon d’Or. However, the broadcast will not be free and exclusive in every market, with some countries excluded from the arrangement.
