Ballon d’Or 2026: How many times Ronaldo, Messi have been nominated

Lionel Messi has been included among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, as the Inter Miami captain continues his bid to win the prestigious award for a ninth time.

Messi’s long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, was not included in this year’s shortlist, ending his chances of adding to his previous Ballon d’Or victories.

Messi has now been nominated for the Ballon d’Or 17 times, placing him second on the all-time list for the most nominations.

Only Ronaldo has received more nominations than Messi. The Portugal captain has been nominated 18 times during his career, giving him a one-nomination lead over Messi.

The 2026 nomination also means Messi continues to hold one of the most remarkable records in the history of the award, despite being 39 years old.

Ronaldo has won the Ballon d’Or five times, while Messi remains the record holder with eight victories.

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Messi will now aim to extend his record to nine Ballon d’Or awards when the winner is announced at the ceremony in London next month.