23 October 2026 2:38 pm WAT
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has reportedly chartered a private jet to fly to London for Monday’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, with family members and close friends expected to accompany him.
The 19-year-old Spain international is expected to attract significant attention at the ceremony as he competes for football’s most prestigious individual award after finishing second in the previous edition.
According to Spanish journalist Víctor Navarro, Yamal arranged private transport rather than travelling with Barcelona’s official delegation, allowing him to share the occasion with people who have supported his rise in football.
The winger has become one of the most prominent young players in world football following his performances for Barcelona and Spain. His displays have earned him recognition among the leading contenders for major individual honours.
Yamal also won the Kopa Trophy for the best young player at the previous Ballon d’Or ceremony, further strengthening his growing reputation.
At last year’s ceremony in Paris, however, he finished second in the Ballon d’Or voting, with Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé claiming the top prize.
Yamal had reportedly planned a celebration with family and friends ahead of the event, anticipating that he could win the award, but ultimately missed out on the main honour.
Despite that disappointment, the Barcelona star remains among the players attracting attention ahead of this year’s ceremony, where he will have another opportunity to secure one of football’s biggest individual prizes.
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