Argentina captain Lionel Messi has moved to the top of the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, strengthening his chances of claiming another football’s most prestigious individual honour ahead of the FIFA World Cup final.
The 39-year-old climbed to the summit of the latest Ballon d’Or rankings after inspiring Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the World Cup semi-final, where he provided two assists to send the defending champions into the final against Spain.
According to prediction platform Polymarket, Messi is now the leading contender for the award with a 31.7 per cent chance of lifting the Ballon d’Or when the winner is announced later this year.
Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal sits close behind in second place with a 30.9 per cent probability, setting up what is expected to be a closely contested race for the prestigious prize.
England captain Harry Kane occupies third position with a 13.5 per cent chance despite his country’s World Cup exit, while France and Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele is fourth with a 3.1 per cent probability.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be officially unveiled at the annual awards ceremony scheduled for October 26.
Messi’s outstanding performances throughout the World Cup campaign, capped by his decisive display against England, have further boosted his credentials as he seeks to add another Ballon d’Or title to his remarkable career.
Advertisement