Lionel Messi finished fifth in the 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings, while Harry Kane won the award. Messi last won the Ballon d’Or in 2023.
The final order
Rodri, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé and Kane all finished ahead of Messi in the rankings. Messi placed above Michael Olise, Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland and Ousmane Dembélé.
Messi’s season and World Cup numbers
Messi was named MLS MVP for the second season in a row after recording 29 goals and 18 assists in 28 games during the 2025 regular season. He also scored eight goals and provided four assists as Argentina reached the 2026 World Cup final.
SI said Messi was the driving force of Inter Miami’s maiden MLS Cup title. SI also said this was likely Messi's final appearance on the Ballon d’Or shortlist.
Why he was not in London
Messi did not attend the Ballon d’Or gala in London and stayed in Miami to attend the inaugural Messi Cup and prepare for Inter Miami's upcoming clash with FC Cincinnati.
Di María’s words
“He’s the best player in history,” Ángel Di María told Sports Illustrated in April.
“And being able to be with him every day, training, everything, is something beautiful,” Ángel Di María said.