Lionel Messi Skips 2026 Ballon d'Or Ceremony
The record-holding star will not attend the upcoming awards gala held at the London Palladium.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Soccer
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Lionel Messi is set to miss the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony despite being named as a nominee for the prestigious trophy. The 39-year-old soccer star, who has secured the award eight times in his career, is expected to observe the event from afar.
Why it matters
Messi remains one of the thirty players currently nominated for the award, cementing his continued influence on the sport at age 39. His absence from the London ceremony follows his recent return to the United States to continue his professional commitments with Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi has claimed the Ballon d'Or trophy eight times, including his first win in 2009 and his most recent in 2023. He is among the 30 athletes currently nominated for the 2026 honor.
The players
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional soccer player who is a record eight-time winner of the Ballon d'Or.
Inter Miami
Inter Miami is a professional soccer club in Major League Soccer where Lionel Messi currently plays.
The details
Although the 39-year-old recently traveled to Oviedo, Spain, to accept the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, he has reportedly opted not to attend the gala at the London Palladium. He has since returned to the United States to resume his duties with his club, Inter Miami.
Timeline
Messi won his first Ballon d'Or award in 2009.
Messi won his eighth Ballon d'Or award in 2023.
Reports confirmed Messi will not attend the ceremony on October 26, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Messi's absence marks a significant shift in the narrative of his late-career participation in global football awards. This decision contrasts with his attendance at the 2023 Ballon d'Or ceremony and highlights a changing focus as he maintains his role at Inter Miami.
As one of 30 nominees, Messi remains in contention for the 2026 award despite his stated plan to skip the gala. His choice to remain in the United States prioritizes his club schedule with Inter Miami over travel to the London ceremony.
The takeaway
Even as a veteran player, Messi remains a central figure in international award considerations and major trophy races. Fans can continue to follow his career progression within Major League Soccer as he balances club duties with his legacy in global sports.
Further reading
For more on professional football and award cycles, visit the Soccer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Khel Now.
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