World Cup 2026 Golden Ball Standings: Messi Tops Mbappe and Olise After Strong Starts for Argentina and France

The 2026 World Cup is underway, and Goal is tracking the frontrunners for FIFA's prestigious Golden Ball award. Lionel Messi currently leads the pack with all five of Argentina’s goals so far, but Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise are hot on his heels.

The Golden Ball honors more than just goal-scoring; media voters consider overall influence and excellence throughout the tournament. Although strikers usually claim the prize, midfielders and even goalkeepers have earned it before. Past winners include Paolo Rossi, Diego Maradona, Salvatore Schillaci, Romario, Ronaldo, Oliver Kahn, Zinedine Zidane, and Diego Forlan. Active players like Messi and Luka Modric also feature among recipients.

Messi, the only player to have won twice—in 2014 and 2022—aims to make it three by securing back-to-back awards. But contenders such as 2022 runner-up Kylian Mbappe, Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele, Spain's young star Lamine Yamal, and England captain Harry Kane also seek the honor.

At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo hopes to add this accolade while guiding Portugal deep into the competition. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Vinicius Junior and Raphinha aim to end a 24-year title drought.

With 48 teams competing across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, unexpected candidates could emerge from any corner.