Official statement dismisses claims that only Europe-based stars have a realistic chance
The organisers of the Ballon d’Or have reaffirmed that footballers can win the prestigious individual award regardless of the league or country in which they play, dismissing the long-held belief that only players based in Europe stand a realistic chance.
The clarification comes as debate over this year’s Ballon d’Or intensifies with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching its conclusion.
Addressing the issue on its official platform, the organisers examined whether playing for a club outside Europe places footballers at a disadvantage in the race for football’s highest individual honour.
While acknowledging that history has largely favoured Europe-based players, the organisers stressed that there is no rule restricting the award to footballers competing on the continent.
An analysis of the last 18 men’s Ballon d’Or winners showed that almost every recipient was representing a European club when they received the honour.
Past winners, including Kaká, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Luka Modrić, Karim Benzema, Rodri and Ousmane Dembélé, were all attached to European clubs when they won the award.
The organisers noted that the only recent exception came in 2023 when Messi won the Ballon d’Or after moving to Inter Miami CF in the United States.
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Responding directly to the question, the organisers stated:
“Yes, it’s entirely possible to win the Ballon d’Or without playing for a European club.”
They, however, acknowledged that historical trends make the feat more difficult, while noting that the growing quality and competitiveness of leagues outside Europe are beginning to reshape the conversation over who can claim football’s biggest individual prize.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.