Messi Ballon d'Or 2026: Why This Could Become a Reality After the World Cup

On July 16, 2026, the Ballon d'Or organizers released a note stating that no geographical restrictions prevent a player from outside Europe from winning the award. Lionel Messi, 39, Inter Miami forward, is a top contender after scoring eight goals for Argentina in the 2026 World Cup. He previously won the Ballon d'Or in 2023 while playing in MLS, as the rule was changed in 2007.