Barcelona president Joan Laporta says he is certain Lamine Yamal will eventually win the Ballon d’Or, despite the 18-year-old finishing third in the 2026 voting.
Yamal secured a third consecutive Kopa Trophy, awarded to the top under-21 player, but missed out on the main prize to Harry Kane, who won the award for the first time in his career.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe finished second, with Yamal in third. Laporta believes the result will only strengthen the Barcelona winger’s determination to succeed.
“I’m convinced he’ll eventually win the Ballon d’Or, I don’t know when, but he deserves it,” Laporta said.
“In my opinion, he deserved to win, but the voters decided this way. It was a sporting decision. Let this serve as motivation for him, because I’m sure it will. His teammates will help him get over the disappointment quickly.”
Yamal has established himself among the leading players in world football despite his age, having been performing at the highest level since he was 16.
“He’s unique, as Lamine has been doing this since he was 16, which is truly remarkable,” Laporta added.
“He deserves everything, and we’ll all help him to be even more motivated to win this award next year.”