French football pundit Daniel Riolo has tipped Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, according to a Daily Post report published on Monday, October 26, 2026. The award is due to be announced in London tonight, with this year’s contest widely viewed as close.

Explaining his choice before the ceremony, Riolo said he had backed Yamal because the young Spanish international is the player he finds most exciting.

“Since it’s so open this year, I’ve chosen the best footballer [Yamal],” Riolo said, according to RMC Sport via After Foot. “He’s the one I enjoy watching most. He’s the most exciting player.”

Yamal has become a key figure in Barcelona’s attack, attracting praise for his creativity, dribbling and impact in the final third. Riolo’s support reflects the teenager’s rising standing in the game, but it does not ensure he will take home the prize.

As the announcement draws near, the focus is on whether the Barcelona forward can win an award that Riolo believes is particularly difficult to predict.