Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has thrown his support behind England captain Harry Kane to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, despite being among the 30 nominees for the prestigious individual award himself.
Rice has made the Ballon d’Or shortlist for the second consecutive year, marking another recognition of his performances for Arsenal and England. However, the midfielder has made it clear that his preferred winner is his international teammate.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Rice said he was proud to receive another nomination but would rather see Kane claim the prize.
“Second year in a row nominated, I’m very proud. You know who I want to win.”
He added: “I’d love to see Harry Kane win it. I wish him all the best in that.”
Kane enters the race as one of the leading contenders after a remarkable campaign with Bayern Munich. The England striker scored 61 goals in 51 appearances last season as the German club secured both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles.
The Bayern forward faces strong competition for the award, with Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also regarded as leading contenders.
For Rice, however, Kane’s achievements have earned him his backing. The Arsenal midfielder will now wait to see whether his England teammate can turn his outstanding season into the biggest individual prize in world football.
Rice’s second consecutive nomination also keeps him among the elite group of players recognised for their performances over the past year, although the midfielder will be hoping Kane gets the final vote when the winner is announced.
