Arthur Elias, head coach of the Brazil women's national football team, has been left off the shortlist for best women's coach at the 2026 Ballon d'Or. France Football, the French magazine that organizes the award, announced the nominees in every category on Tuesday, September 8.
Elias had appeared on the shortlist for the past two editions of the award but did not make this year's list of five finalists.
Two previous shortlist appearances
In 2024, shortly after leading Brazil to a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, Elias was considered one of the frontrunners for the prize. It ultimately went to Emma Hayes, the former Chelsea manager who now coaches the United States national team.
In 2025, Elias returned to the shortlist after Brazil's dramatic Copa America triumph, South America's leading continental women's tournament, but again missed out. That award was won by Sarina Wiegman, coach of the England national team, who previously guided the Netherlands to the Women's Euro title before taking charge of England.
Only woman on this year's list
The sole woman among the 2026 nominees is Elena Sadiku, who led Celtic to their first Scottish Women's Premier League title in 2025. Sadiku has coached BK Hacken since December and steered the club to the UEFA Women's Europa Cup title in May.
The full list of nominees for best women's coach at the 2026 Ballon d'Or includes Jonatan Giraldez of OL Lyonnes, Andree Jeglertz of Manchester City, Nils Nielsen of the Japan national team, Pere Romeu of Barcelona and Elena Sadiku.
Ceremony moves to London
The 2026 Ballon d'Or, organized by France Football, will be held on October 26 in London, England. The ceremony usually takes place in France, but organizers moved this year's venue to mark the award's 70th anniversary and to honor Stanley Matthews, the former England forward who was the first Ballon d'Or winner.
The Ballon d'Or is one of football's most prestigious individual honors, recognizing standout performances across separate men's and women's playing categories as well as coaching awards.
