Ballon d’Or organisers have confirmed that footballers do not need to play for a European club to win the prestigious award, clearing up speculation over Lionel Messi’s eligibility for a record-extending ninth title.
The clarification comes as Messi has emerged among the leading contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or after inspiring Argentina to the FIFA World Cup final.
Questions had been raised over whether the Inter Miami star, who now plays in Major League Soccer (MLS), could still win football’s most coveted individual honour.
However, organisers reiterated that the award has had no geographical restrictions since 2007, meaning any professional footballer, regardless of where they play, is eligible.
Responding to the debate on social media platform X, Ballon d’Or organisers stated: “Yes, it’s entirely possible to win the Ballon d’Or without playing for a European club.”
The clarification also means players competing outside Europe, including Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League, remain eligible for the award.
Recent editions of the Ballon d’Or have produced a mix of established stars and first-time winners.
Karim Benzema claimed the award in 2022 before Messi won a record eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023. Manchester City’s Rodri lifted the trophy in 2024, while France and Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembele was crowned the 2025 winner.
For the 2026 award, Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, England captain Harry Kane and Messi are among the leading names tipped to challenge for the prize, with the World Cup expected to play a significant role in determining the winner.
The 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 26, 2026, and will be held in London for the first time in the award’s history.
The decision to move the ceremony from its traditional home in Paris is intended to honour English football legend Sir Stanley Matthews, who won the inaugural Ballon d’Or seven decades ago.
Organisers are yet to announce the exact venue and start time for this year’s ceremony.
