"The UEFA Champions League and league title have traditionally played a major role in deciding the Ballon d'Or winner. However, this year's victor could be decided later this summer, depending on the outcome of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations results."
"This was evident when Lionel Messi secured his record-extending eighth Golden Ball in 2023, months after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in December 2022."
"Haaland has scored 29 goals and provided seven assists in 39 appearances across all competitions for Manchester City to date, helping his side challenge for the Premier League title. His case was also boosted after he helped Norway qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1998."
The Ballon d'Or, presented annually by France Football magazine, represents football's greatest individual award. Ousmane Dembele claimed the 2025 Golden Ball and seeks to retain it. The 2026 race intensifies as the season reaches its midway point, with multiple European superstars emerging as contenders. While UEFA Champions League and league titles traditionally influence the award decision, international tournaments are expected to play a pivotal role in determining the 2026 winner. Historical precedent shows this pattern, exemplified by Lionel Messi's record eighth Ballon d'Or in 2023 following Argentina's World Cup victory. Top contenders include Erling Haaland, who scored 29 goals and provided seven assists for Manchester City while helping Norway qualify for the World Cup, and Michael Olise at Bayern Munich.
Read at Sportskeeda
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