Lionel Messi back in Ballon d'Or contention after World Cup masterclass
Lionel Messi's stellar performance at the 2026 World Cup has revived his Ballon d'Or bid, overshadowing his domestic season with Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi mercredi après la victoire de l'Argentine sur l'Angleterre en demi-finales de la Coupe du monde (2-1). (S. Mantey /L'Équipe)
Lionel Messi's performance at the 2026 World Cup has catapulted the 39-year-old back into the race for the Ballon d'Or. Despite playing for Inter Miami and operating far from the intensity of the Champions League, his influence on the Argentina side has proven he remains a decisive force at the highest level.
Messi has registered eight goals and four assists during the tournament, providing critical leadership in high-pressure matches against Cape Verde and England. Should Argentina secure a fourth star in Sunday's final against Spain, his path to a ninth Ballon d'Or trophy would be clear.
The competition is stiff, with Spanish stars like Rodri, Lamine Yamal, and Dani Olmo also in the mix. Meanwhile, French hopefuls like Kylian Mbappé and Michaël Olise have seen their chances diminish following their semi-final exit. The outcome of the final in New York will likely be the deciding factor for the jury.