Alexia Putellas Ballon d’Or 2026: Can a Champions League win seal her third award against Lyon?

As FC Barcelona Femení prepares to face Olympique Lyonnais in the 2026 UEFA Women’s Champions League final on May 23 at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, all eyes are on captain Alexia Putellas. A victory for the Spanish giants could propel the two-time Ballon d’Or winner toward her third prestigious individual accolade.

Putellas, often called “The Queen,” has enjoyed a stellar 2025-26 campaign, bouncing back impressively from past injuries. She has contributed significantly with goals and assists across competitions, including a domestic treble. Reaching her 500th appearance for Barcelona this season, the midfielder has been instrumental in guiding her team to another European final. Many analysts believe a strong performance and Champions League title in Oslo would make her the standout candidate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Féminin.

Putellas’ Legacy and the Bonmatí Benchmark

Alexia Putellas previously won the Ballon d’Or in 2021 and 2022, becoming the first Spanish woman to claim the honor and achieving back-to-back victories. Her return to peak form has reignited discussions about her place among the all-time greats in women’s football.

A win against Lyon would allow Putellas to equal the three Ballon d’Or titles of her Barcelona teammate Aitana Bonmatí, who secured the award consecutively in 2023, 2024, and 2025 — a historic first for any female player. Bonmatí’s dominance set a high bar, but Putellas’ leadership, creativity in midfield, and big-game performances position her as a worthy successor in the conversation for 2026.

Barcelona vs Lyon: A Historic rivalry renewed

This final marks another chapter in one of women’s football’s fiercest rivalries. Barcelona defeated Lyon in the 2024 final, with contributions from both Bonmatí and Putellas. Lyon, eight-time champions, remain a formidable opponent hungry for revenge.

Barcelona enters as favorites, boasting an unbeaten run in Europe this season. Putellas has been central to their success, delivering clutch moments. For the 32-year-old captain, lifting the trophy could not only deliver club glory but also cement her legacy on the individual stage.

What’s at Stake?

Beyond the team trophy, the personal narrative is compelling. A Champions League triumph in Oslo could be the defining factor in Putellas securing her third Ballon d’Or, matching Bonmatí’s record and underscoring Barcelona’s continued dominance in women’s football.

Fans worldwide will be watching whether “La Reina” delivers another masterclass. The 2026 final promises drama, skill, and potentially history-making moments for Alexia Putellas.