Lionel Messi could become the first player from a non-European league to win the coveted Ballon d’Or after his record-breaking display at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Argentina, the defending champions, have already reached the final and remain just one step away from their second consecutive title. Messi, playing his last World Cup at the age of 39, tops both the scoring and assist charts of the tournament. Now, many fans feel Inter Miami could be a major contender for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, which he has already won eight times in his decorated career.
However, some were doubtful, as the individual award, given by French Football, was originally created for players from the European leagues. Messi secured his last Ballon d’Or in 2023 when he was already at Inter Miami. But French Football later clarified that his performance with Paris Saint-Germain in the 2022-23 season was considered. Messi moved to the MLS club in the summer of 2023.
Can Messi win Ballon d’Or from MLS?
Lionel Messi currently has eight goals and four assists in the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the final against Spain yet to be played on July 19. His season with Inter Miami was also quite impressive despite limited appearances.
As fans ask, “Can Lionel Messi win the Ballon d’Or if Argentina win the FIFA World Cup 2026?”, the official page of the award explained the criteria, confirming that players from non-European leagues are also eligible. It means the Argentina captain could hope to claim his record-extending ninth Ballon d’Or this year.
“Created in 1956 by France Football, the Ballon d’Or originally awarded the best European player playing in a European league. This remained the case until 1995, when the trophy went global, although it was still reserved for players in European leagues. But since 2007, there have been no restrictions: the Ballon d’Or awards the best player in the world, nothing more,” says the Ballon d’Or organisers.
Do stats actually back Lionel Messi?
When there is a discussion on the greatest player of all time, Lionel Messi’s name will always be there. The Barcelona legend won four UEFA Champions League titles before leaving Europe for Inter Miami. He has also enjoyed great success at the David Beckham-co-owned MLS club.
Despite injury struggles, Messi played 16 games for the Herons this season to register 20 G/A, including 13 goals. Now, after a bright FIFA World Cup campaign, where a runners-up medal is already secured, the veteran playmaker would no doubt enter the Ballon d’Or 2026 as one of the favourites.
