Kane omitted from FIFPRO World XI despite Ballon d'Or win
Harry Kane, who won the 2026 Ballon d'Or, has not been selected in the men's FIFPRO World XI, which is chosen only by professional players. More than 18,000 players voted from 26 finalists. Kane took 27.6 per cent of forward votes, while Erling Haaland took 28.4 per cent. The men's XI is set up in a 3-3-4 formation, and Lionel Messi was named for a record 18th time. Jude Bellingham was picked in midfield. Kane's omission is the first time a Ballon d'Or winner has been left out since the award began in 2005. Kane beat Kylian Mbappé for the Ballon d'Or by one of the smallest margins in its history.
Key facts
- The FIFPRO attack features Mbappé, Haaland, Messi and Yamal.
- Lucy Bronze was named in the women's FIFPRO World XI for a record ninth time.
- Alexia Putellas, who won the Ballon d'Or Féminin, was included in the women's XI.
Summarised with AI from 3 sourcesRead our AI policy
Why it matters
The FIFPRO selection reflects player votes, which can differ from the Ballon d'Or's journalist-based result.
What changed
First published from The Independent, Sky Sports and Yahoo Sports