Sadio Mané and Achraf Hakimi nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or

The Senegalese striker and the Moroccan right-back are among the 30 nominees for the prestigious award.

Africa has two representatives in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Sadio Mané and Achraf Hakimi, nominated by France Football, were finalists in the most recent Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The Senegalese forward, who plays for Al-Nassr, put in some fine performances throughout 2026. A finalist in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal, Sadio Mané scored two goals and provided three assists during the tournament, which was held in Morocco last winter.

The 34-year-old Senegalese was named the tournament’s best player following the Lions of Teranga’s victory in the final. He distinguished himself a few months later at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an assist.

With Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, Mané scored 10 goals and provided six assists last season. He also won the Saudi league title at the end of the 2025–2026 season.

Achraf Hakimi has made a name for himself through his performances for both club and country. With the Atlas Lions, the Moroccan full-back reached the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He also reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Morocco.

At Paris Saint-Germain, Hakimi played a key role during the 2025–2026 season. He won the Champions League for the second year running with the Parisian club, as well as Ligue 1.