Jean-Pierre Papin, the former France striker, has backed Bayern Munich's Harry Kane over Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe for this year's Ballon d'Or award. Papin expressed admiration for all three leading contenders but leaned towards Kane when asked to pick a favourite.

"I have a slight preference for Harry Kane, but Kylian Mbappe has also had a very good season, as has Lamine Yamal," Papin told reporters. He warned that Barcelona's Yamal could dominate the award for years to come if he wins it this time.

"Every time I watch him play, I get the impression that he invents something," Papin said of the young Barcelona winger. "Lamine could win it too, but I would have a slight preference for Harry Kane."

Kane, Mbappe and Yamal rank among the top contenders for the 2026 award. The winner will be announced later this month in London.