Achraf Hakimi has secured another major milestone in his career after being named among the 30 candidates for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. The Paris Saint-Germain defender is once again being considered among the world’s elite players, following a season in which his influence grew both at club and international level.
The Moroccan captain is competing for the prestigious award alongside some of the biggest names in world football, including Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal and Harry Kane. The shortlist was unveiled by France Football on September 8.
Hakimi’s inclusion is particularly notable given the nature of the award, which has traditionally favored attacking players. His nomination highlights the impact of a defender who has become an important figure in Paris Saint-Germain’s system while maintaining a prominent role with Morocco.
At PSG, Hakimi has established himself as a key component of the team. His performances have contributed to the club’s domestic success and European campaigns, strengthening his credentials for one of football’s most prestigious individual honors.
The Moroccan international also enters the race with growing recognition across Africa. He was named Africa’s best player at the 2025 CAF Awards, adding another major individual distinction to his résumé.
His role with the Atlas Lions further reinforces his standing. As Morocco’s captain, Hakimi has become one of the central figures of the national team and one of the country’s most recognizable footballers on the international stage.
PSG has a strong presence on the 2026 shortlist, with several of the club’s leading players also nominated, including Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Marquinhos, Nuno Mendes, João Neves, Vitinha, Willian Pacho and Fabián Ruiz.
Hakimi nevertheless faces formidable competition. Among the contenders are the reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, as well as Mbappé, Haaland, Messi, Yamal, Bellingham and Kane.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London. The event will also mark the 70th anniversary of the award, whose inaugural winner was England legend Stanley Matthews.
For Hakimi, the nomination represents another step in an increasingly distinguished career and further confirms his position among the leading Moroccan and African players on the global football stage.
