Why Lionel Messi Is the Favorite to Win the 2026 Ballon d'Or

Why Lionel Messi Is the Favourite to Win the Golden Boot and the 2026 Ballon d'Or

By ZongoPlus Sports Desk | July 17, 2026

Lionel Messi is on the verge of another historic achievement. As Argentina prepare to face Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, the Argentine captain is widely regarded as the leading contender for both the Golden Boot and the 2026 Ballon d'Or.

With one match left to play, Messi's performances have once again placed him at the center of world football.

Leading the Golden Boot Race

Messi heads into the World Cup final as one of the tournament's top scorers, with eight goals and four assists. He is level with other leading scorers on goals, but his superior assist tally gives him the edge under FIFA's Golden Boot tiebreaker rules.

If Messi scores against Spain—or if his closest rivals fail to surpass his tally—he is expected to finish as the tournament's top scorer.

Argentina's Run to the Final

One of the biggest reasons Messi is favoured for the Ballon d'Or is Argentina's impressive journey to another World Cup final.

The 39-year-old has delivered in every stage of the competition, scoring crucial goals and creating chances in key matches. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding Argentina to within one victory of back-to-back World Cup titles.

Big-Game Performances

The Ballon d'Or often rewards players who excel in football's biggest moments, and Messi has done exactly that.

Throughout the tournament he has:

Scored decisive goals.

Registered multiple assists.

Produced match-winning performances.

Consistently influenced Argentina's attacking play.

Those displays have strengthened his case ahead of other contenders.

Why the Ballon d'Or Is Within Reach

The Ballon d'Or recognizes a player's performances across the season, and a successful World Cup campaign can significantly influence voting.

A World Cup triumph would add another major trophy to Messi's résumé and reinforce his position as one of the leading candidates for football's most prestigious individual award. Analysts and media outlets have moved him to the top tier of the Ballon d'Or conversation ahead of the final.

The Competition

Messi still faces strong competition from several world-class players, including:

Kylian Mbappé, who remains in the Golden Boot race.

Harry Kane, whose club season has also strengthened his Ballon d'Or credentials.

Rodri, whose consistency for club and country has earned widespread praise.

Jude Bellingham, who impressed throughout the season and World Cup.

One Final Step

Everything now comes down to the World Cup final against Spain.

A standout performance—and especially another goal—could see Messi finish the tournament with both the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball (awarded to the tournament's best player), while also strengthening his claim for a record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or.

Final Thoughts

Lionel Messi has spent nearly two decades redefining greatness in football. Now, with Argentina one win away from another World Cup title, he has the opportunity to crown an extraordinary career with more individual honours.

If Argentina lift the trophy on Sunday and Messi continues his remarkable form, he will be in a commanding position to add both the Golden Boot and the 2026 Ballon d'Or to his already unmatched collection.