Nils Nielsen Nominated for 2026 Ballon d'Or Women's Coach of the Year

Now Technical Director at Como 1907, Nielsen earns recognition for leading Japan Women’s National Team to Asian Cup glory.

The nomination caps a remarkable run with Japan's national team. Appointed in December 2024 as the first foreign head coach in Nadeshiko Japan's history, Nielsen won the 2025 SheBelieves Cup in his first months in charge, beating the USWNT 2-1 in the final. He then led Japan to the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup title, their third in four editions, capped by a 1-0 win over hosts Australia in front of a record 74,397 fans. Japan were dominant throughout the tournament, scoring 29 goals and conceding just one. Midfielder Maika Hamano scored the winner in the final, and the run also secured Japan's place at the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.

Each juror will pick their top two coaches from the shortlist, with points awarded for first and second choice and the winner will be crowned at the ceremony in London on October 26th.

Amazing work Nils !