How much money will Ballon d'Or 2026 winner take home?

Ousmane Dembele clinched the men’s award in 2025.

The Ballon d’Or is presented in both the men’s and women’s categories. The Golden Ball is awarded to the player with consistent performances for his club and country. Winning team trophies and breaking records also help make the case stronger for the players.

This has been a tradition for quite some time now, with several awards being presented before the winners of the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or are announced. The event is also set to recognise young talents, goalkeepers, coaches, clubs and outstanding contributions to society.

Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal are locked in a tight race for the men’s prize, while Alexia Putellas, Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey are the favourites for the women’s award.

These players have displayed consistent performances for both their clubs and countries. Considered one of the most prestigious individual awards in the history of football, it is all set to be presented for the 70th time.

Also Read: Ballon d’Or 2026 – Start time in India, UK, USA & around the world

What is the prize money for Ballon d’Or 2026 winner?

Although the Ballon d’Or is awarded to the best player in the world each year, neither France Football nor UEFA, which has co-organised the ceremony since 2024, offers a direct cash prize alongside the award.

But there can be club and sponsor bonuses after winning the prestigious individual award. For example, Karim Benzema previously collected a reported €2 million bonus from Real Madrid after winning the Ballon d’Or in 2022.

When it comes to a major sportswear brand or a commercial sponsor, there can be cash milestones for individual awards, just like Luka Modric’s reported €800,000 bonus from Nike in 2018.

This year, the Ballon d’Or is celebrating its 70th anniversary, and it will be interesting to see the star lifting the prestigious prize.

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