Messi nominated to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or

GOAL magazine has provided the newest update on the competition for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, with the unexpected inclusion of Lionel Messi.

At 38 years old, few would have expected Lionel Messi to still perform spectacularly and be the cornerstone for his team's success. However, after leading Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup title (22 goals, 19 assists), and with Argentina still considered strong contenders for the World Cup, the possibility of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner rejoining this prestigious race next summer is entirely feasible.

In the latest update for the 2025 Ballon d'Or, GOAL magazine ranks Messi ninth, placing him ahead of numerous young stars currently in excellent form. This assessment indicates the Argentine superstar still has a solid chance to be a top contender for the prestigious award, provided he maintains consistent performance and good physical condition at the 2026 World Cup, a tournament for which El Pulga has yet to confirm his participation.

Meanwhile, the top five names predicted by GOAL show no surprises.

5. Declan Rice

Declan Rice has established himself as a world-class midfielder through outstanding performances against Real Madrid in last season’s Champions League and remains an indispensable pillar for Arsenal. He plays a crucial role in their ambitions to win both the Premier League and Champions League. With his all-around style, Rice is also a key figure for England under Thomas Tuchel, a team with high hopes for the 2026 World Cup.

4. Lamine Yamal

Lamine Yamal is considered the top candidate for the Ballon d'Or and could become the first player under 21 to win this honor. His impressive Champions League displays placed him second behind Dembele.

However, the 2007-born rising star still faces questions about his impact in big matches and injury risks. Since Barcelona is not yet competitive enough for the European title, his chances likely depend heavily on the 2026 World Cup with Spain.

3. Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappe is on the verge of fulfilling his Ballon d'Or dream, a title expected of him since his Monaco days. At 27, he has yet to win it, but this season he is carrying Real Madrid with crucial goals. Known for shining at World Cups, the French captain is seen as a strong contender to compete until the end in the Ballon d'Or race.

2. Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland has rebounded strongly after a below-par season, becoming an unstoppable force for Manchester City in the Premier League and Champions League races. At 25, he is nearing his third Golden Boot in four seasons.

His chances for the Ballon d'Or are further boosted by Norway’s first World Cup qualification since 1998, giving him a grand stage to assert his status.

1. Harry Kane

Harry Kane is playing as if on a mission after shedding the burden of winning trophies, starting the season with a bang at Bayern Munich. Beyond scoring consistently, he shows a complete style of play, promising more titles by season’s end. For England, Kane remains the greatest hope to end their international trophy drought.

Top 10 players competing for the 2026 Ballon d'Or (according to GOAL ’s prediction)

1. Harry Kane
2. Erling Haaland
3. Kylian Mbappe
4. Lamine Yamal
5. Declan Rice
6. Vitinha
7. Michael Olise
8. Luis Diaz
9. Lionel Messi
10. Achraf Hakimi