Messi Finishes Fifth in Likely Final Ballon d'Or Ranking

si.com —

Lionel Messi finished fifth in the 2026 Ballon d'Or rankings, his likely final appearance on the shortlist, at age 39. He ranked ahead of stars like Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland, with Harry Kane winning the award. Messi's placement was driven by eight goals and four assists at the 2026 World Cup, where he led Argentina to the final, and his role in Inter Miami's MLS Cup title. Messi skipped the London gala to stay in Miami. His fifth-place finish follows a two-year absence from nominations and adds to his record eight Ballon d'Or wins, with his last triumph coming in 2023.


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Messi Finishes Fifth in Likely Final Ballon d'Or Ranking | News Minimalist