2026 Ballon d'Or: Full men's, women's short lists, host city change, more

It's nearly that time again. The 2026 Ballon d'Or awards -- the annual ceremony in which France Football Magazine crowns the best men's and women's players in the world -- are fast approaching, with the short list for each award announced on Tuesday. The Ballon d'Or trophies are handed out based on the criteria of: "1) Individual performances, decisive and impressive character, 2) Team performances and achievements, 3) Class and fair play." Any player in world football is eligible, no matter the league they play in or their country of origin, and the short lists are decided by a jury of 100 journalists from around the world. So who is nominated for this year's awards, and who could win? When is the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony, and why isn't it in Paris? The 2026 Ballon d'Or awards, which have long been presented by France Football Magazine, will be handed out on Oct. 26. There will be