Events
2026 Ballon d'Or Nominees Announced: Messi and Dembélé Lead, Ronaldo Excluded
The 70th annual Ballon d'Or ceremony has unveiled its 30-player shortlist, featuring major stars while notably omitting Cristiano Ronaldo.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, the organizers of the prestigious Ballon d'Or award have officially released the list of 30 nominees for the 2026 edition, marking the 70th anniversary of the ceremony. The shortlist includes high-profile athletes such as eight-time winner Lionel Messi and last year’s recipient, Ousmane Dembélé. Other prominent names appearing on the list include Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland.
Notably absent from this year's selection is Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time winner of the award. The exclusion of the veteran forward has drawn attention from football fans globally.
For residents and travelers in Thailand, where football culture is deeply ingrained, this announcement serves as a significant cultural touchpoint. Major sporting events often influence local social gatherings, sports bar activities, and retail promotions across the country. While the list of nominees is now public, the final winner remains to be determined by the voting process. Fans and observers are currently awaiting further updates regarding the ceremony date and the final selection criteria as the event approaches.