BREAKING: Lionel Messi Nominated For Ballon d’Or At 39 As Historic Comeback Continues
Lionel Messi has been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, adding another extraordinary chapter to his legendary career.
The Inter Miami and Argentina star is included among the 30 nominees for the prestigious award despite approaching his 40th birthday.
Messi remains one of the biggest names in world football and continues to produce decisive performances for club and country.
His latest nomination is particularly remarkable because he is competing against a new generation of stars who have grown up watching him dominate the sport.
Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane are among the players competing for the award.
Messi’s inclusion also means that the Argentine remains firmly involved in the world’s biggest individual football debate years after winning the trophy for the first time.
The veteran forward has already claimed the Ballon d’Or eight times, more than any other player.
However, winning another award will be extremely difficult.
The voting panel will consider performances during the relevant season, meaning Messi must compete against players who have enjoyed exceptional campaigns across Europe and international football.
The final winner will be crowned in London on October 26.
Whether Messi wins or not, his latest nomination sends another powerful message about his extraordinary longevity.
At an age when most players are approaching retirement, the Argentine is still being considered among football’s elite.