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WM 2026July 21, 2026

Why the open race for the Ballon d'Or is an unexpected one

The 2026 FIFA World Cup lived up to many expectations, but the performances of players like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé were overshadowed by Lionel Messi's outstanding performances. These could win him the Ballon d'Or.

Why the open race for the Ballon d'Or is an unexpected one

Why the open race for the Ballon d'Or is an unexpected one

According to Cbssports.

Background

Lionel Messi led the Argentina national team to remarkable victories during the 2026 World Cup, demonstrating his exceptional skills. His performances could be crucial for the Ballon d'Or award, especially compared to the less successful performances of Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé.

Why this is important

Lionel Messi's outstanding performances at the 2026 World Cup have put him back in the spotlight and could be crucial to his Ballon d'Or chances. While players like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé failed to achieve the success they hoped for, Messi has proven that he can also shine in crucial moments. This dynamic could influence the judges' perception and cement Messi's position as one of the game's greats.

Key findings

  • Why the open race for the Ballon d'Or is an unexpected one.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup lived up to many expectations, but the performances of players like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé were overshadowed by Lionel Messi's outstanding performances.
  • Why the wide-open Ballon d'Or race could crown an unexpected winner after wild 2026 World Cup.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup surprised the football world in many ways. While many eyes were on big names like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé, both of whom failed to achieve the success they had hoped for with their teams, Lionel Messi once again impressively proved that he is one of the game's greatest. Messi's performances during the tournament were nothing short of remarkable. With his experience and playing skills, he led the Argentine national team to remarkable victories. Especially in crucial moments, the superstar showed that he can also shine in pressure situations. His ability to score goals and provide crucial assists has not only propelled his team forward but has also amazed spectators. Now that the World Cup is over, the question of the Ballon d'Or is coming into the spotlight. The award, given annually to the best player in the world, is often influenced by performances in major tournaments. The failure of Kane and Mbappé could now pave the way for Messi to once again become the focus of the jurors. Image Kane, who took over as captain of the England national team, was unable to live up to high expectations. Despite his individual strength, England were eliminated from the tournament early on, significantly reducing the striker's chances of winning the coveted prize. It was a similar story for Mbappé, who had some impressive moments but was ultimately unable to lead his team to the final. Messi, on the other hand, could use the positive memories of his performances during the World Cup to put himself back into the Ballon d'Or discussion. Many experts and fans agree that his impressive performances in the final games of the World Cup make him a favorite should he receive the nomination for the award. The award could have special meaning for Messi as it would crown his remarkable career, especially after his triumphant performance in Qatar. At a time when new talent is emerging, Messi remains an indispensable part of the conversation about the best players in the world. With the Ballon d'Or race now in full swing, it remains to be seen how the votes will be distributed among the judges. The 2026 World Cup has set the stage for Messi to potentially celebrate another major success in his already illustrious career.

What happens next

With the end of the 2026 World Cup, the discussion about the Ballon d'Or will become more intense. It is expected that Messi's performances during the tournament could convince the judges, while Kane and Mbappé's disappointments will reduce their chances. The football world will be watching eagerly to see whether Messi emerges victorious again and further cements his status as a legend of the game.

Frequently asked questions

What happened to the Ballon d'Or after the 2026 World Cup?

The question of the Ballon d'Or comes into the spotlight as players' performances at major tournaments often influence the award.

Who confirmed Lionel Messi's performances during the 2026 World Cup?

Lionel Messi's achievements were confirmed by his impressive games and leadership of the Argentina national team during the tournament.

Why is Lionel Messi now a favorite for the Ballon d'Or?

Messi's outstanding performances and his ability to shine in pressure situations could put him in the focus of the judges again.

What changes were there for Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé after the 2026 World Cup?

Both Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé were unable to live up to the high expectations and were eliminated from the tournament early, which reduces their chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.

What did the 2026 World Cup mean for the football world?

The 2026 World Cup surprised the football world and put the spotlight on the achievements of players like Messi, Kane and Mbappé.

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Häufig gestellte Fragen

What happened to the Ballon d'Or after the 2026 World Cup?
The question of the Ballon d'Or comes into the spotlight because players' performances at major tournaments often influence the award.
Who confirmed Lionel Messi's performances during the 2026 World Cup?
Lionel Messi's achievements were confirmed by his impressive games and leadership of the Argentina national team during the tournament.
Why is Lionel Messi now a favorite for the Ballon d'Or?
Messi's outstanding performances and ability to shine in pressure situations could put him in the judges' focus again.
What changes were there for Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé after the 2026 World Cup?
Both Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé failed to live up to high expectations and exited the tournament early, hurting their chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.
What did the 2026 World Cup mean for the football world?
The 2026 World Cup surprised the football world and put the spotlight on the achievements of players like Messi, Kane and Mbappé.
What happened in this story?
Why the open race for the Ballon d'Or is an unexpected one summarizes the main development covered in this report.
Who confirmed this news?
See the source attribution in the article for where this report was first published or corroborated.
Why the open race for the Ballon d'Or? | MannschaftGoal