Messi Ranked 2nd in Ballon d'Or Race Based on 2026 Stats

A new ranking of Ballon d'Or favourites based purely on 2026 stats places Lionel Messi 2nd, behind only a formula favoring attackers. This challenges the narrative that Rodri should win and keeps Messi in the award conversation despite the World Cup final loss. The ranking highlights Messi's continued elite performance at age 39.