Ballon d'Or 2026 Power Rankings: Lionel Messi leads race for record ninth award

Messi's latest rise comes after inspiring Argentina to a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the World Cup semi-finals, sending the defending champions into a second consecutive final.

While he scored five goals during France's World Cup campaign, the team's semi-final exit has hurt his chances of retaining the award.

Should Argentina successfully defend their World Cup title, the legendary forward would become the overwhelming favourite to claim an unprecedented ninth Ballon d'Or, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.