HAMILTON, ONT. – (Nov. 5, 2026) – Forge FC defender Antoine Batisse and goalkeeper Dimitry Bertaud have been named finalists for the Canadian Premier League’s Players’ Player of the Year award.
The Players’ Player of the Year award recognizes standout performances throughout the 2026 CPL Regular Season, with players across the league selecting those they believe are most deserving of recognition. Each CPL player is invited to submit a three-man shortlist, with the collective votes determining both the 10 finalists and the eventual winner.
Batisse, 31, became one of the CPL’s most versatile and impactful defenders in 2026, excelling as both a central defender and defensive midfielder. The Frenchman finished fifth league-wide in possession won (119), demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposing attacks and regain control in key areas of the pitch. His contributions extended into the attacking third, with four goals and three assists, including three match-winners. A commanding presence defensively and a consistent threat on set pieces, Batisse played an instrumental role in Forge’s success throughout the campaign, earning recognition as one of the league’s standout performers.
Bertaud, 28, delivered an outstanding first season with Forge FC, establishing himself as one of the CPL’s premier goalkeepers through his consistency, commanding presence and exceptional shot-stopping ability. The Forge shot-stopper led all CPL goalkeepers in fewest goals conceded per 90 minutes (0.74), allowing just one goal every 122 minutes. He recorded 10 clean sheets in 23 regular-season starts, posting a league-best clean-sheet rate of 43 percent. Bertaud also led the league with a 93.3 percent save rate on shots from outside the box, while ranking second in overall save percentage (72.1 percent) and save percentage on shots from inside the box (65.2 percent). His performances were instrumental in helping Forge establish one of the league’s strongest defensive units, earning him a nomination for the 2026 CPL Golden Glove award.
Voting for the Players’ Player of the Year award is based on performances during the 2026 CPL Regular Season, not including the TELUS Canadian Championship, Concacaf Champions Cup, or the 2026 CPL Playoffs action.
The winner of the Players’ Player of the Year award will receive a unique piece of Inuit soapstone art, conceived and carved by artist Ruben Komangapik. The Muskox statue was chosen to honour the Players’ Player of the Year award winner because the animal earns the respect of his herd through his leadership and organization, and gains recognition from his peers for his commanding presence in the heat of battle.