Figo Praises Olise as Ballon d’Or Favorite for 2026 Award
Former Real Madrid and Portugal star Luis Figo has declared Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise among the top contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, suggesting the French international could win football’s most prestigious individual honor as early as this year.
Speaking ahead of his participation in the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony in Madrid, Figo emphasized Olise’s recent performances as evidence of his elite standing in the game.
“He is an amazing player. He made the difference in that match (against Real Madrid). He is having an exceptional season,” Figo stated, according to verified reports from the event.
The former Ballon d’Or winner himself (having claimed the award in 2000) went further in his assessment, placing Olise firmly in the conversation for this year’s prize.
“Olise is among the favorites to win the Ballon d’Or, not just in the future, but starting from this year,” Figo declared, highlighting the immediacy of his endorsement.
Figo’s praise comes amid a standout campaign for Olise, who has emerged as a key figure for Bayern Munich in both domestic and European competitions. The Portuguese legend specifically noted the winger’s ability to influence high-stakes encounters.
“He has been a pleasant surprise, not only individually but similarly for what he brings to his team. For all lovers of beautiful football, we are delighted to watch him play,” Figo added, underscoring the aesthetic and functional value of Olise’s contributions.
The accolades from Figo represent a significant endorsement from one of football’s most respected former players, particularly given his history with Real Madrid and his continued involvement in the sport through ambassadorial roles and awards ceremonies.
Olise’s rise has been marked by consistent performances that have drawn attention from across the football world. His technical ability, vision and capacity to deliver in crucial moments have been repeatedly highlighted by observers and opponents alike.
While the Ballon d’Or race typically features established superstars from the traditional powerhouses of world football, Figo’s comments suggest Olise has broken into that elite tier through sustained excellence over the past season.
The Bayern Munich attacker’s impact extends beyond individual brilliance, with Figo emphasizing how his presence elevates team performance—a factor often considered vital in Ballon d’Or deliberations.
As the football calendar progresses toward the usual autumn timing for the Ballon d’Or announcement, Olise will aim to maintain the form that has elicited such high praise from figures like Figo.
For now, the French winger can take confidence in the backing of a genuine legend of the game, whose opinion carries considerable weight in global football circles.
The next confirmed checkpoint in Olise’s season will be Bayern Munich’s upcoming Bundesliga fixture, as the club continues its pursuit of domestic and European honors.
What do you believe of Luis Figo’s assessment of Michael Olise’s Ballon d’Or chances? Share your views in the comments below and join the conversation.
