The latest update from Ballon d'Or organisers has reignited hopes that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could add to their record 13 combined Golden Balls before retiring. The clarification confirms that players at non-European clubs remain eligible for the award, a change that directly affects both legends now playing outside Europe.
Messi and Ronaldo's Dominance and Current Status
Messi holds the record with eight Ballon d'Or wins, while Ronaldo has five. Their rivalry defined European football for 15 years. However, both have now left the continent: Messi joined Inter Miami in Major League Soccer in July 2023, and Ronaldo moved to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in January 2023.
At the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, both players are leading their nations in what is widely seen as their final World Cup appearance. Messi has scored seven goals to help Argentina reach the Round of 16, where they face Egypt. Ronaldo has three goals as Portugal prepares to play Spain in the Round of 16. The two could only meet in the final; a quarterfinal clash was avoided when Portugal topped Group K.
Ballon d'Or Eligibility Rule Clarified
Ballon d'Or released a statement confirming that players featuring for clubs outside Europe are eligible for the award, ending speculation that Messi and Ronaldo might be excluded. In the last 18 editions, only one winner came from a non-European club: Messi in 2023, when he won as an Inter Miami player. However, that award was largely based on his performances at Paris Saint-Germain and Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory.
According to talkSPORT, Neymar made the 2011 Ballon d'Or top 10 while playing for Brazilian club Santos, proving that non-European players can be recognised.
World Cup Influence on the 2026 Award
The 2026 Ballon d'Or will be heavily influenced by the World Cup, as the tournament takes place in the same calendar year. Argentina and Portugal are among the favourites, meaning if either nation wins, Messi or Ronaldo would become strong contenders.
Legit.ng previously reported that Ballon d'Or explained whether the World Cup winner has an outright claim to the Golden Ball. The clarification came as Messi's World Cup performances sparked claims he could win a record-extending ninth award.
Fans believed both players had entered the final phase of their careers after leaving Europe, making way for new stars like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. However, the latest update ensures that Messi and Ronaldo remain in the conversation for football's most prestigious individual prize.
