Ballon d’Or 2026: Mbappe Ruled Out as Final-Bound Messi Eyes Ninth Award

Kylian Mbappe can forget about the 2026 Ballon d’Or. France’s captain has seen his hopes effectively wiped out by Les Bleus’ World Cup exit, while Lionel Messi drives Argentina toward the tournament final. That’s the verdict from former France international Jeremie Aliadiere, speaking exclusively to GOAL — and it’s a storyline England fans will want to follow closely as the race for football’s top individual prize reshapes itself.

Why Mbappe Is Out of the Ballon d’Or Race

The award has long rewarded players who go deep in major tournaments. Jeremie Aliadiere told GOAL that France’s early World Cup exit has effectively ended Mbappe’s chances of winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Despite being France’s all-time leading goalscorer, Mbappe has never actually won the Ballon d’Or — a striking gap for a player of his stature.

With no major trophy to point to from the 2026 international season, he’ll need to wait another year for a fresh crack at the prize, likely leaning on club form instead.

Messi Chases a Historic Ninth Ballon d’Or

While France head home, Messi’s Argentina remain alive and are World Cup final-bound in 2026. Reaching the final would put the eight-time winner firmly in contention for a ninth Ballon d’Or — a feat no player has ever achieved.

For English fans, the moment sharpens the comparison at home: as Messi chases a historic ninth award, the spotlight turns to whether Jude Bellingham or Phil Foden can build a similar case in future years.

What This Means for England’s Own Contenders

With Mbappe out of contention, the 2026 Ballon d’Or field opens up considerably, particularly for anyone still standing deep into the World Cup.

Expect the conversation around England’s next Ballon d’Or challenger to keep building through the rest of the tournament and right up to the official ceremony.

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