Rodri has played down discussions surrounding the 2026 Ballon d’Or, insisting that his focus remains away from the individual award while expressing his hope that a Spanish player ultimately takes home the prestigious prize.
The Barcelona midfielder has emerged as one of the leading contenders following an outstanding year with Spain. After previously winning the Ballon d’Or in 2024, Rodri added another major achievement to his résumé by captaining Spain to 2026 World Cup glory.
Softfootball understands that his performances throughout the tournament were particularly influential, with the midfielder also receiving the Golden Ball award as the competition’s outstanding player. Those achievements have naturally placed him among the favourites ahead of the Ballon d’Or announcement in October.
However, Rodri appears reluctant to become involved in the growing debate surrounding who should win the award. Instead, he called for recognition to be given to every player who has been nominated and maintained that the focus should be on celebrating their achievements.
While refusing to campaign for himself, Rodri did reveal his preferred outcome. The midfielder hopes the award remains in Spanish hands, reflecting the country’s remarkable year on the international stage and the performances of several Spanish stars at club and international level.
Rodri’s comments come at a time when the Ballon d’Or race is becoming increasingly competitive. Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal are among the other prominent names featuring prominently in early power rankings, while Rodri’s World Cup-winning campaign has strengthened his own credentials.
For Rodri, however, the individual recognition appears secondary to the collective success Spain achieved. Having already claimed the award once, the Barcelona star knows exactly what it takes to reach the top of world football.
Whether he becomes the first player to win the prize twice in three years or another Spanish star takes the honour, Rodri’s preference is clear: he wants Spain to celebrate another Ballon d’Or winner.
