Ballon d'Or 2026 Live Streaming: Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane among contenders; when and where to watch

Football's biggest individual awards are set to take centre stage as the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony takes place in London on Monday, October 26. Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe are among the headline names in contention for the men's award. The 70th edition of the ceremony will be held at the London Palladium Theatre for the first time, celebrating the best individual performances in men's and women's football during the 2025-26 season.

Ousmane Dembele, who won the men's Ballon d'Or in 2025, is also among the contenders as he looks to retain his crown. However, he faces competition from a strong field that includes Bayern Munich striker Kane, Barcelona youngster Yamal and Real Madrid forward Mbappe. Messi, an eight-time winner of the award, is another major name in the race. The Argentine remains one of football's most decorated players, although the final outcome will depend on the voters' assessment of performances during the eligible period.

The ceremony will take place at the London Palladium Theatre in London on Monday, October 26. For viewers in India, the main event is scheduled to begin at 1:30 am IST on Tuesday, October 27.

The red-carpet coverage is expected to begin at 10:30 pm IST on Monday, giving fans an opportunity to follow the arrival of football's biggest stars.

Ballon d'Or 2026: Where to watch live streaming in India?

Football fans in India can watch the Ballon d'Or 2026 ceremony through the DAZN app and website. The official Ballon d'Or website will also provide updates on the event.

There is no confirmed television broadcaster for the live telecast in India, so viewers should check the official streaming platforms for regional availability.

Ballon d'Or 2026: Who are the favourites to win?

Kane, Yamal, Mbappe and defending champion Dembele are among the leading names to watch in the men's category. Messi is also among the nominees, bringing his record eight Ballon d'Or wins into focus.

The ceremony will also feature awards for the best women's player, young players, goalkeepers, coaches, clubs and top scorers, alongside the Sócrates Award for humanitarian and social initiatives.

With several leading names competing for football's most prestigious individual honour, the ceremony will reveal who emerges as the standout player of the 2025-26 season.