Lionel Messi will present the 2026 Ballon d’Or trophy to the winner after leading Argentina to the World Cup final, according to reports from journalist Juan Jesus. The Inter Miami captain, who recently retired from international football, is expected to attend the ceremony in London on October 26, 2026, where he will hand over the prestigious award to one of the 30 nominees.
Messi’s involvement in the ceremony comes after a remarkable run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he scored eight goals and helped Argentina secure a place in the final. His performance also contributed to Inter Miami’s first MLS Cup victory, adding to an already impressive year for the forward. Although he remains a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or, which would be his ninth, Messi is reportedly set to step into the role of presenter rather than recipient.
This will be the first time the Ballon d’Or ceremony takes place in London, with the event held at the London Palladium. Messi’s name appears alongside other nominees such as Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, and Ousmane Dembélé. His return to the shortlist follows a two-year absence from the nominations, despite having won the award a record eight times before.
Messi’s recent retirement from international football marks the end of a career decorated with several trophies, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His leadership and scoring ability were instrumental in Argentina’s run in 2026, reinforcing his status among the sport’s all-time greats.
The news of Messi’s role at the Ballon d’Or ceremony adds a new chapter to his football legacy. While still in contention for the award, the transition from nominee to presenter symbolizes a shift in his career as he moves beyond international competition.
The details about Messi’s participation in the ceremony are confirmed by Juan Jesus but have not yet been officially announced by the Ballon d’Or organisers. The event is set to draw global attention, not only for the award itself but for Messi’s unique position in it.
According to Yahoo Sports.
