Ballon d’Or organisers clarify non-Europe rules for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo

Winning the Ballon d’Or has traditionally been a strictly European affair, but organisers have officially responded to questions about whether that trend is set to change.

Recent Ballon d’Or editions have seen a mix of legendary figures and new names rising to the top.

Following Karim Benzema’s triumph in 2022 and Lionel Messi’s historic eighth win in 2023, Manchester City star Rodri took the 2024 trophy, before winger Ousmane Dembele claimed the honor in 2025.

Lamine Yamal and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane are up there in the talk about who could win the 2026 version, with a possible World Cup win for the youngster helping his cause.

However, Lionel Messi has emerged as the favorite to claim a record-extending ninth Ballon d’Or after guiding Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, but there are questions over whether he qualifies.

Ballon d’Or clarify rule over players not playing in Europe

Since 2007, the Ballon d’Or has had no geographic restrictions, meaning any professional footballer worldwide is completely eligible to win.

Organisers recently reiterated this rule on X, confirming that players based outside of Europe, such as those in MLS (Lionel Messi) or the Saudi Pro League (Cristiano Ronaldo), can legally claim the award.

They state: ‘Yes, it’s entirely possible to win the Ballon d’Or without playing for a European club.’

When is the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony?

The 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 26, 2026.

For the first time ever, the gala will be hosted in London rather than its traditional home of Paris, paying tribute to English legend Sir Stanley Matthews, who won the inaugural award seven decades ago.

No exact timings or specific London venues have been officially announced by the organisers yet. But historically, the main gala ceremony usually kicks off around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM UK time (BST), with the red carpet arrivals starting a couple of hours earlier.

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