World Cup: Ballon d’Or winner need not play for European club, organizer states

France Football, the organizer of the prestigious Ballon d'Or award, has clarified that there are no restrictions on a player's club affiliation for winning the prestigious award. This statement comes amid intensified debate during the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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the best player in the world, full stop.

Historically, the Ballon d'Or has predominantly been won by players representing European clubs, reinforcing the perception that playing in Europe is essential for claiming the prize. However, France Football stated on its official X account that since 2007, the award has been presented to "the best player in the world, full stop," with no geographical limitations.

The award's eligibility criteria have evolved over time. Initially created in 1956 for the best European player in a European league, it expanded in 1995 to include players of all nationalities playing in Europe. The final restriction was removed in 2007, opening the award to any player globally.

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Since 2007, there’s been no restriction: the Ballon d’Or rewards the best player in the world, full stop.

While history shows most winners have played for European clubs, France Football noted that it is still possible to win the award while playing elsewhere. Lionel Messi in 2023 is cited as the only male winner to have officially represented a non-European club at the time of receiving the prize, although his performances during the 2022/23 season were primarily with Paris Saint-Germain before his move to Inter Miami. The organizers also pointed out that since 2022, the Ballon d'Or has been judged on a season basis (August 1 to July 31) rather than a calendar year.

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Only one player was based outside Europe when he lifted the Ballon d’Or: Lionel Messi in 2023. At the time of the 67th ceremony, on October 30, 2023, the Argentine was already playing for Inter Miami.

For the women's award, France Football also noted that only one player has won while representing a club outside Europe. The organizers emphasized that winning the Ballon d'Or without playing for a European club is technically possible, though historical trends and the growing strength of leagues outside Europe are shaping the landscape of the award.

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Yes, it’s entirely possible to win the Ballon d’Or without playing for a European club. It just looks harder in light of history, but the growing strength of certain leagues outside Europe are shaking things up.