Lionel Messi has emerged as the new favourite to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, narrowly moving ahead of Spain and Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal.
The Argentina captain climbed to the top of the race after providing two assists in his country’s 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final.
The victory secured Argentina a place in the final against Spain, setting up another direct battle between Messi and Yamal.
According to prediction platform Polymarket, Messi now has a 31.7 per cent chance of winning the award, slightly ahead of Yamal on 30.9 per cent.
England captain Harry Kane is third with a 13.5 per cent chance, while France international Ousmane Dembele occupies fourth position with 3.1 per cent.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced at a gala scheduled for October 26.
