France and Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane has thrown his weight behind Lionel Messi in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, overlooking compatriot Kylian Mbappe and other leading contenders.
Zidane was emphatic about his choice, saying he would vote for Messi repeatedly if given the opportunity.
“I would vote for Messi 100 times,” Zidane said, according to Marca.
The former Real Madrid manager also praised Messi’s extraordinary longevity, saying the football world may not fully appreciate how remarkable it is for the Argentine to remain among the elite at 39.
Messi earned a place on the 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist after another outstanding campaign with Inter Miami and Argentina. He reportedly registered 45 goals and 30 assists in 49 appearances during the 2025/26 season and helped Inter Miami secure the MLS title. He also scored eight goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Argentina reached the final.
The endorsement comes despite strong competition from Mbappe, Harry Kane and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, who are widely regarded as among the leading candidates for this year’s prize.
Mbappe, in particular, has made no secret of his belief that he deserves the award, pointing to his individual statistics during the campaign. However, Zidane has opted for Messi, whose continued performances at the highest level have impressed the French football icon.
Zidane went even further in the long-running debate over the greatest footballer of all time, declaring that Messi’s status should no longer be questioned.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Messi won the award,” the former France captain said, while insisting that anyone still doubting Messi’s status as the GOAT does not understand football.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is seeking to add another individual honour to his record collection. His most recent triumph came in 2023.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on October 26, with Messi’s latest nomination setting up another intriguing contest among some of the biggest names in world football.
Zidane’s backing is particularly notable given that Mbappe, his fellow Frenchman and Real Madrid star, is among the players expected to challenge strongly for the prestigious award.
