Temwa Chawinga Nominated for 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or

Malawi international Temwa Chawinga has been nominated for the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or, earning a place on the shortlist for the second consecutive year.

The US-based forward, who represents both her club and the Malawi Women’s National Football Team, the Scorchers, has been recognised following another strong period of performances at club and international level.

Chawinga first received a Ballon d’Or nomination last year, becoming one of the Malawian players to reach the shortlist for the prestigious individual award. Her return to the list this year further highlights her growing profile on the international women’s football stage.

The Ballon d’Or, organised annually by France Football, recognises outstanding performers in both men’s and women’s football and remains one of the most prominent individual honours in the sport.

Chawinga’s continued presence among the nominees is also significant for Malawian football, with her performances helping bring increased international attention to the country’s women’s game.

The nomination places her alongside several of the world’s leading female players as the contenders prepare for another race for the prestigious award.

With the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or winner set to be announced later this year, Chawinga will now look to build on her second successive nomination and make further history for Malawi.