Vicky López Wins Kopa Trophy as Best Young Player at 2026 Ballon d'Or

Barcelona forward Vicky López was awarded the Kopa Trophy for the second consecutive year during the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony. The event took place on Monday, October 26, at the London Palladium Theatre in London, England, marking the 70th anniversary of the prestigious awards created by France Football.

The 20-year-old Spanish international secured the honor recognizing the best female player under the age of 21. López previously claimed the same accolade in 2025, alongside winning the Golden Girl award for best young player in the world in 2024. Her rise to prominence also includes a stellar performance at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, where she was named the tournament's best player after Spain defeated Colombia in the final.

During the 2025/26 season, López featured in 45 matches for Barcelona, scoring 12 goals and providing crucial assists to help drive the Catalan club's dominant campaign. Her achievements added to a night of sweeping success for Barcelona representatives across both men's and women's categories.

Reflecting on her accolade, López expressed immense pride in her team and colleagues. "This recognition would not be possible without my teammates at Barcelona and on the national team, who make me better every day," she stated. "We have a great team. Last year, we had a spectacular season. That is why everyone is here nominated for the awards, because we are the best team in the world."

The ceremony in London highlighted a historic evening for Spanish football. Alongside López, compatriot Lamine Yamal collected his third consecutive men's Kopa Trophy, while Alexia Putellas claimed her third Ballon d'Or. Additional honors for Spanish figures included Luis de la Fuente winning best men's coach, Pere Romeu earning best women's coach, Unai Simón securing the Yashin Trophy for best men's goalkeeper, and Cata Coll taking the women's counterpart.

The celebration at the London Palladium underscored the ongoing global dominance of Spanish players and clubs on the international stage. Barcelona was additionally named the Women's Club of the Year, completing a memorable milestone for the institution during the diamond anniversary of the global awards.