Alexia Putellas stands as the clear frontrunner for a top-three finish in the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or after Barcelona’s quadruple-winning campaign and her standout Champions League contributions, with the shortlist announcement in early September removing three-time winner Aitana Bonmatí due to injury and elevating Putellas’ case for a third career honor. Polish striker Ewa Pajor ranks as her closest challenger on the strength of 43 goals, including 11 in the Champions League, while players such as Melchie Dumornay, Pernille Harder, and Khadija Shaw compete for the remaining podium spots based on domestic titles and individual output. The October 26 ceremony at London’s Palladium will finalize voting by journalists and captains, with recent form and historical precedent favoring established names in a wide-open field.