Some of the biggest attacking stars in world handball have been nominated for the EHF Excellence Awards 2026 at left back.
On the women’s side, Odense star Thale Rushfeldt Deila leads a talented group after another impressive season in both domestic and European competition. Györ’s Bruna de Paula, Gloria Bistrita scorer Danila So Delgado and Thüringer HC standout Johanna Reichert are among the biggest challengers.
Emily Vogel and Annika Lott complete the shortlist.
The men’s category could be one of the toughest to predict
Simon Pytlick enjoyed another excellent season for Flensburg-Handewitt, while Paris Saint-Germain’s Elohim Prandi continued to establish himself as one of Europe’s premier left backs.
Füchse Berlin’s Lasse Andersson, Sporting CP sensation Martim Costa, Nantes star Thibaud Briet and Barcelona veteran Timothy N’Guessan are also nominated.
With goals, assists and match-winning performances throughout the season, the battle for the left back spot is wide open.