L'Equipe names Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as Ballon d'Or pick

The Ballon d'Or debate has accelerated in the aftermath of the World Cup, with Spain's triumph and the performances of several established stars shaping the early conversation. Yet French daily L'Equipe has taken a different line, naming Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as its standout candidate for the award.

A wider Ballon d'Or field

The discussion around this year's prize has not been limited to players based in Europe. Organisers have confirmed that there are no geographical restrictions on winning the Ballon d'Or, opening the door for players outside the continent to remain in contention.

That clarification keeps figures such as Lionel Messi, now with Inter Miami in MLS, and Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League within the broader conversation. Messi, in particular, has been widely mentioned after leading Argentina to the World Cup final, where they were beaten by Spain.

Spain's winners and familiar contenders

Given Spain's World Cup success, it is no surprise that Spanish internationals have been pushed to the front of many early predictions. Lamine Yamal and Rodri are among the names most frequently linked with the prize.

There are also strong cases elsewhere. Ousmane Dembele has been highlighted after playing a central role for France and helping PSG win a second straight Champions League title. Kylian Mbappe, the World Cup's top scorer, is another player regularly cited among the leading contenders.

L'Equipe's surprise choice

Against that backdrop, L'Equipe has made a striking call by putting Kvaratskhelia at the centre of its Ballon d'Or coverage. The Georgia international did not play at the World Cup, making his inclusion as a leading favourite all the more notable.

The case for Kvaratskhelia rests on his club season with PSG. He was described in the source material as one of the team's best players and a driving force behind their Ligue 1 title and Champions League triumph.

• 10 goals and seven assists in 16 Champions League matches
• Eight goals and four assists in Ligue 1
• Part of PSG's title-winning domestic and European campaign

The context behind the debate

The discussion has also drawn attention to the structure around the award. As noted by klix.ba, the Ballon d'Or is organised by France Football, which shares the same owner as L'Equipe. That detail has added another layer to the reaction surrounding the newspaper's endorsement of Kvaratskhelia.

For now, the Ballon d'Or race remains open, with arguments to be made for World Cup stars, Champions League winners and elite performers across different leagues. What is clear is that L'Equipe has shifted the spotlight onto Kvaratskhelia in a way few expected.

The winner of the 2026 Ballon d'Or is due to be announced on 26 October 2026.