The race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or is heating up, and one of football’s most influential figures has delivered a scathing assessment of the current landscape. Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeneß has publicly dismissed Lionel Messi’s bid for a ninth Ballon d’Or, labeling the Argentine’s candidacy as “nonsense.” Instead, Hoeneß has thrown his immense weight behind Bayern Munich’s star striker Harry Kane, asserting that the English international’s record-breaking campaign makes him the undisputed rightful winner of the prestigious individual accolade. “He would absolutely deserve it. And I hope he gets it,” Hoeneß stated, emphasizing that Kane’s phenomenal season across all competitions leaves no room for debate. “If he doesn’t deserve it this year, then when will he?”
Kane’s case is backed by staggering numbers and silverware. The striker amassed an astonishing 73 competitive goals and secured two major trophies with Bayern Munich, establishing himself as the most lethal force in world football. This extraordinary performance has galvanized a chorus of support from former players and pundits. Former Bayern Munich star Owen Hargreaves and ex-England international Danny Mills have both voiced their belief that Kane deserves serious consideration, while former England striker Michael Owen insists the Bayern marksman must be at the very center of the conversation. Despite facing stiff competition from Lionel Messi, rising superstar Lamine Yamal, and Kylian Mbappé, Kane’s sheer goal-scoring volume and team success present an unassailable argument for the award.
However, the debate remains fiercely contested, with legendary figures rallying behind other contenders. Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has passionately backed Messi, arguing that the Argentine’s performances at an elite level, particularly during the World Cup, make him the clear choice. “Messi, without a doubt,” Simeone declared, dismissing the cases of Yamal and Mbappé. Yamal himself has put forward a compelling case, pointing to his triumphs in La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the World Cup with Spain. Meanwhile, reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele has stated his ambition to retain the trophy, insisting the award should remain in the hands of a PSG player. The prestigious 30-man shortlist also features other heavyweights, including Jude Bellingham, Rodri, and Spain’s World Cup hero Ferran Torres, ensuring a highly competitive and closely watched voting process.
As the October 26 ceremony in London approaches, the discourse continues to divide opinions. Some, like Ally McCoist, have expressed outright anger at the prospect of another Messi triumph, arguing that the award must reflect the player of the current year rather than past glories. With Messi’s recent Campeones Cup success adding further momentum to his campaign, the voting is shaping up to be one of the most contentious in the award’s storied history. The football world will be watching closely as the ballots are counted, with the consensus remaining beautifully fractured.
