Ballon d’Or organisers release update on World Cup’s impact on 2026 award race
In 2010, Lionel Messi claimed the award despite Spain winning the World Cup, finishing ahead of Spain’s Andrés Iniesta and Xavi.
Four years later, Cristiano Ronaldo won the Ballon d’Or ahead of World Cup finalist Messi and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who had lifted the trophy in Brazil.
Summing up its findings, the Ballon d’Or organisers said: “Yes, winning the World Cup helps, but it does not guarantee a Ballon d’Or.
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