Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha Nominated for 2026 Ballon d'Or Award

Cape Verde international and veteran goalkeeper Vozinha has achieved a remarkable milestone by being named to the official shortlist for the prestigious 2026 Ballon d'Or best goalkeeper award. The announcement places the 40-year-old shot-stopper among an elite group of global football talents recognized for their exceptional performances on the pitch.

Vozinha's inclusion on the 10-player shortlist highlights an impressive career phase that includes making 19 official appearances and cultivating a massive digital presence, which currently boasts more than 29 million followers on Instagram.

The high-profile nomination features a competitive field of international goalkeeping stars representing top clubs and national teams across the world. The fellow nominees shortlisted alongside Vozinha include David Raya of Arsenal, Matvey Safonov of Paris Saint-Germain, Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Liverpool's Alisson Becker. Rounding out the extensive list of nominees are Mike Maignan, Jordan Pickford, Yassine Bounou of Al Hilal, Joan Garcia of FC Barcelona, Gregor Kobel of Borussia Dortmund, Emiliano Martinez, Edouard Mendy of Al Ahli, and Unai Simon of Athletic Bilbao.

Football fans and officials from across the globe are now looking ahead to the main event where the ultimate winner of the coveted annual goalkeeping accolade will be officially unveiled to the public.

The formal presentation ceremony for the 2026 Ballon d'Or awards is officially scheduled to take place on October 26 in the vibrant city of London, where the best footballing achievements of the year will be celebrated.