CORNERFLICK
Unai Simón won the 2026 Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in London, claiming the men's best goalkeeper award for the first time.
World Cup form tipped the vote
The 29-year-old Spain international was among the leading candidates after a strong World Cup. He played eight matches, conceded one goal and kept 650 consecutive minutes without letting in a goal, breaking Walter Zenga's record. Simón also won the tournament's Golden Glove as Spain lifted the title.
Spain also took the women's prize
Simón had finished second in the 2024 Yashin Trophy behind Emiliano Martínez, but moved one place higher this year to finish ahead of Thibaut Courtois, David Raya, Joan García and Martínez.
In the women's award, Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll won the 2026 Yashin Trophy, meaning both goalkeeper prizes went to Spanish players at this year's ceremony.