Ballon d’Or organisers have reiterated that winning the FIFA World Cup alone does not guarantee football’s biggest individual prize, stressing that the award recognises the best player across the entire season.
In an official statement, the organisers clarified the criteria used in selecting the winner.
Official Ballon d’Or statement:
Yes, winning the World Cup helps, but it does NOT guarantee a Ballon d’Or.
To win it, you need to have been the best player of the SEASON, not only of the World Cup.
Softfootball understands The statement comes as prediction markets increasingly favour Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal to claim the 2026 Ballon d’Or following Spain’s World Cup triumph.
Latest Kalshi Ballon d’Or prediction:
- 🇪🇸 Lamine Yamal — 53%
- 🏴 Harry Kane — 29%
- 🇦🇷 Lionel Messi — 6%
Spain were crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive extra-time winner. The victory capped a remarkable campaign for La Roja and has significantly strengthened the Ballon d’Or credentials of several Spanish players.
While World Cup success remains a major factor, the Ballon d’Or organisers have once again emphasised that performances across the full season—not just one tournament—will determine the final winner.
