Ballon d’Or: Yamal Beats Barcelona Teammate Cubarsí To Win Third Consecutive Kopa Trophy

Barcelona and Spain forward Lamine Yamal has won the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, beating his club teammate Pau Cubarsí to retain the award recognising the best young footballer.

The 19-year-old expressed gratitude after receiving the honour but admitted that he believed Cubarsí deserved to win the award instead.

Yamal also thanked his teammates at both club and international levels, acknowledging their contributions to his continued success.

The latest recognition further underscores Yamal’s emergence as one of football’s most prominent young talents, following his impressive performances for Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

The Kopa Trophy is presented as part of the Ballon d’Or awards and recognises the best male player aged under 21.

Ahead of the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony at the London Palladium in England, football stars representing clubs across the world and journalists gathered for the 70th edition of the prestigious awards.

England captain Harry Kane has been tipped as a favourite to become his country’s first Ballon d’Or winner in 25 years, although he faces stiff competition from La Liga stars Yamal and Kylian Mbappé.

The 2026 ceremony also marks the first time the Ballon d’Or awards are being staged outside France, adding a new chapter to the history of the football honour.