The qualification of the Argentine National Team for the final of the 2026 World Cup raised one of the questions that most concerns fans: "Can Lionel Messi win the Ballon d'Or without playing in Europe?". The idea that a player not performing in European football could win the award seems strange, but according to the organization of the award itself, it is not impossible.
In light of the growing debate, the Ballon d'Or published a statement to clear up any doubts and reminded that the regulations no longer limit the award to footballers playing in European clubs. "Yes, it is totally possible to win the Ballon d'Or without playing for a European club. It simply seems more difficult in light of history, but the growing strength of certain leagues outside Europe is changing the rules of the game", explained the organization.
Additionally, it emphasized that "nothing is impossible when it comes to the Ballon d'Or. Anyone, regardless of the league they play in, can, in theory, lift it". As a precedent in the women's category, it recalled the case of Megan Rapinoe, who won the award in 2019 while playing for Seattle Reign.
