Ballon d'Or 2026: Messi to Present Trophy to Yamal at London Ceremony

Lionel Messi is set to present the 2026 Ballon d’Or to his successor at the ceremony held on October 26 in London, according to information published by Spanish journalist Juan Jesus on X. A revelation that fuels speculation around Lamine Yamal’s victory.

“The presence of the Argentine star is not merely symbolic: he will be tasked with presenting the prestigious trophy in person to the new winner of this edition on stage,” the journalist clarified. Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is also among the 30 nominees for this edition.

The symbolism is hard to ignore. Yamal, 17, was photographed as a baby in Messi’s arms during a session that became iconic. Receiving the trophy from the hands of the Argentine legend would constitute a passing of the torch of rare significance in football history.

The Barcelona player arrives as the strong favourite after a stellar 2024-2025 season: World Cup winner with Spain, he also contributed to Paris Saint-Germain’s second consecutive UEFA Champions League title. The race remains open nonetheless. Harry Kane enjoyed a prolific season with Bayern Munich, Kylian Mbappé displays impressive individual statistics, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembélé — the defending champion — can claim their European title with PSG.

The official verdict will be announced on October 26 at the London ceremony, where the 70th Ballon d’Or in history will be awarded.