Barcelona president Joan Laporta has backed teenage winger Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, describing the Spanish international as a “genius” and saying he would be delighted to see him claim the prestigious individual award.
Laporta made the remarks on Wednesday, September 9, while speaking to reporters ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League opener. Yamal is among the 30 nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or after another impressive campaign for both club and country.
“He is spectacular. He has exceptional quality, he is a genius, and I think his Ballon d’Or nomination is more than deserved,” Laporta said. He added that Yamal had shown remarkable maturity and leadership despite his young age.
“I would love Lamine to win the Ballon d’Or. I would also be delighted if any player from Barça wins it. Lamine is a very mature guy. A genius. He is extraordinary,” the Barcelona president said.
Yamal’s case has been strengthened by his performances during the 2025/26 season, when he helped Barcelona win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. He also played a significant role in Spain’s 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph. Reports put his Barcelona tally for the campaign at 24 goals and 18 assists in 45 appearances.
The 19-year-old previously finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or voting behind Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé. He has now received another nomination as he seeks to go one step further and become the winner of the 2026 award.
Laporta also expressed pride in Barcelona’s representation among this year’s nominees, saying he would be pleased if any player from the club won the award, although he made clear that Yamal was his preferred candidate.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner is expected to be announced at the awards ceremony in October.
