Ballon d'Or 2026: Organizers explain why Lionel Messi can still claim the title

Author: Othniel KOUASSIPublished on: July 16, 2026Country: France

Sports

Ballon d'Or 2026: Organizers explain why Lionel Messi can still claim the title

The Ballon d'Or organizers published an official note on July 16, 2026, stating that no regulation currently requires players to play in Europe to win the award. Lionel Messi, Inter Miami forward and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, can thus legitimately claim the 2026 title. The Argentine has scored eight goals in the 2026 World Cup. The geographical restriction was lifted in 2007.

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