Messi Gets 17th Ballon d’Or Nomination as Ronaldo Misses Out
Lionel Messi has been named among the nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, extending his record-breaking presence in the prestigious individual award while longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo misses out.
Messi’s inclusion marks the 17th Ballon d’Or nomination of his career. The Inter Miami forward is now just one nomination behind Ronaldo, who holds the record with 18.
The latest shortlist was announced by France Football on Tuesday, September 8, with 30 players competing for the men’s award.
Messi Ballon d’Or return after two years
The Messi Ballon d’Or comeback comes after he was absent from the shortlist in the previous two editions.
The Argentine has already won the award a record eight times, with his most recent victory coming in 2023.
His return was largely driven by his performances for Argentina and Inter Miami during the 2025-26 season.
At the 2026 World Cup, Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists as Argentina reached the final before losing 1-0 to Spain after extra time.
For Inter Miami, the 39-year-old also enjoyed a productive campaign, recording 45 goals and 30 assists in 49 appearances, according to L’Équipe. He also helped the club win the MLS title.
Why was Ronaldo left out?
While Messi returned to the shortlist, Ronaldo was one of the biggest names missing from it.
The 41-year-old Portuguese forward won the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr but was not included among the 30 nominees. His omission means he has now missed the Ballon d’Or shortlist for the fifth consecutive year.
Ronaldo’s last nomination came in 2022, while his last Ballon d’Or victory was in 2017.
His 18 nominations remain a record, but Messi’s latest inclusion has brought the Argentine within touching distance of that mark.
Messi Ballon d’Or record continues
Messi’s 17th nomination adds another chapter to his extraordinary Ballon d’Or history.
The Argentine has lifted the award eight times, more than any other player. His victories came in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021 and 2023.
However, a ninth title will not be straightforward.
The 2026 shortlist includes several players who had outstanding seasons, including Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembélé and Rodri.
Kane is considered one of the leading contenders after a remarkable season with Bayern Munich and England. Reuters reports that he scored 73 goals across club and international football.
Can Messi win a ninth Ballon d’Or?
Messi’s nomination means he remains in contention for a ninth Ballon d’Or, but his chances will face strong competition.
His World Cup campaign gives him a major part of his case, although Argentina’s defeat in the final could work against him. His performances at Inter Miami also strengthen his argument despite playing outside Europe’s traditional top leagues.
The final winner will be announced at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on October 26.
For now, the biggest headline is clear: Messi is back on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, while Ronaldo is not. And with Messi now only one nomination behind Ronaldo’s record, another chapter of their remarkable individual rivalry has begun.