2026 Ballon d’Or: Declan Rice Backs Harry Kane to Win Award

Arsenal and England midfielder Declan Rice has backed his international teammate Harry Kane to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Rice, who has been nominated for the prestigious individual award for the second consecutive year, said he would love to see Kane take home the prize.

The Arsenal midfielder made his preference clear while speaking to Sky Sports after being named among the 30 nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

“Second year in a row nominated, I’m very proud. You know who I want to win,” Rice said.

“I’d love to see Harry Kane win it. I wish him all the best in that.”

Kane is regarded as one of the leading contenders for the award alongside players including Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

The England captain enjoyed a prolific campaign with Bayern Munich, scoring 61 goals in 51 matches as the German club won both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal.

Rice, meanwhile, earned his second consecutive Ballon d’Or nomination after another strong campaign with Arsenal and England.

The winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or will be determined from the final shortlist through the award’s voting process, with Kane hoping his goals and trophy-winning season will be enough to secure the honour.