RFI and France 24 have unveiled the 11 nominees for the 2026 Marc-Vivien Foé Award, recognizing the best African player in Ligue 1. With standout performers and rising stars, the race looks wide open.
The shortlist for the 2026 Marc-Vivien Foé Award was announced on April 9 by RFI and France 24, who have jointly organized the prize since 2011. The winner will be revealed on May 11. Among the leading contenders are Mamadou Sangaré, one of the breakout stars of the Ligue 1 season, Lamine Camara, thriving at Monaco, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who is chasing a historic third title. The shortlist highlights both consistency and emerging talent across the league.
Algerian players are also in focus this year. Ilan Kebbal has enjoyed a career-best season, playing a key role in Paris FC’s campaign, while Aïssa Mandi continues to deliver solid performances as a defensive leader at Lille. They are joined by other strong candidates such as Moussa Niakhaté and Hervé Koffi. With several players in top form, the final weeks of the season could prove निर्णing in determining the winner.