Kopa Trophy: Every Champion Crowned and the Record-Breaking Winners Who Dominate the History Books

Each year, the Kopa Trophy is awarded to the finest player under 21 in the world, celebrating the most promising young talents in football.

Introduced in 2018, the accolade is among the prestigious honors presented at the annual Ballon d'Or ceremony. Every past recipient has since become a globally recognized name, boasting impressive trophy collections with both club and national teams. Some were already widely known at the time of receiving the award, despite their young ages.

Barcelona players have largely dominated the award since it was established, with five of the seven men's winners representing the Catalan club. The first-ever Women's Kopa Trophy recipient also wears the Blaugrana jersey.

With the 2026 nominees for both the Men's and Women's Kopa Trophy now announced, Barcelona looks well-positioned to continue that dominance at October's ceremony.

Here's a complete overview of the award's history.

Kopa Trophy History Breakdown

Men's Kopa Trophy Winners

Who Has Won the Most Men's Kopa Trophy Awards?

In 2025, Lamine Yamal became the first player in history to claim two Kopa Trophy awards. The Barcelona sensation initially claimed the honor in 2024 after playing a key role in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph, just one day after celebrating his 17th birthday.

He then lifted the trophy again the following year for his impact on Barcelona's domestic treble in 2024–25. The winger also finished as Ballon d'Or runner-up at just 18 years of age.

Yamal could further extend his record as the most decorated Kopa Trophy winner in 2026 by claiming the prize for a third straight season. Having helped Barcelona retain their La Liga and Spanish Super Cup titles before guiding La Roja to World Cup glory, the 19-year-old stands as the clear frontrunner.

Women's Kopa Trophy Winners

Who Has Won the Most Women's Kopa Trophy Awards?

The first-ever Women's Kopa Trophy was claimed by Barcelona winger Vicky López. At just 19 years old, the young Spanish talent was recognized as the top women's U-21 player on the planet following a standout breakout campaign with the senior squad.

López netted nine goals across 37 appearances as Barcelona completed their domestic treble. She also made her Champions League debut during that run, swiftly becoming the third-youngest player in the club's history to score in Europe's top club competition.

López has earned another nomination for the 2026 award and could join Yamal as one of only two players to win multiple Kopa Trophy honors.