2026 Ballon d’Or: Messi Could Miss Ceremony as Kane and Yamal Emerge as Favorites

Lionel Messi has not decided whether he will travel to London for Monday’s 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, according to Sport. The 39-year-old received the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in Oviedo, Spain, on Thursday and could then return to the United States, where he plays for Inter Miami. A record eight-time winner, Messi is not expected to claim a ninth award this year. Bookmakers consider Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal the leading contenders, with either poised to win for the first time.