Barcelona backs Lamine Yamal over Rodri for 2026 Ballon d’Or vote
Barcelona midfielder Rodri revealed that his club will not vote for him in the 2026 Ballon d’Or, instead backing teammate Lamine Yamal. Rodri shared this in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, noting both players are among the 30 nominees. Rodri won the Ballon d’Or in 2024 while playing for Manchester City.
The internal club split highlights the rivalry between two Barcelona stars vying for football’s top individual honor. Yamal, a 17‑year‑old winger, is seeking his first Ballon d’Or, while Rodri aims to become the first player to win it twice with different clubs. The decision could influence voting perceptions among journalists and fans.
Rodri said he hopes a Spanish player wins the award, showing sportsmanship despite the snub. Voting for the 2026 Ballon d’Or concludes later this year, with the winner announced in early 2027. Football fans can watch how the intra‑club dynamics affect the race and consider whether club loyalty should impact individual awards.