Ballon d'Or 2026: Luis de la Fuente opposes Lionel Messi's coronation

Luis De la Fuente wants to see a Spanish international lift the 2026 Ballon d'Or on Monday evening.

On Thursday, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised the exceptional legacy Lionel Messi has left in the world of football and sport. He highlighted that the Argentine star embodies human and sporting values that transcend the boundaries of the pitch. He made the comments on the occasion of the presentation of the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports.

De la Fuente spoke to the media in the Spanish city of Oviedo, where Lionel Messi is being honored with this prestigious distinction, expressing his pride at taking part in an event he described as having global reach.

No 2026 Ballon d'Or for Messi

Asked about the 2026 Ballon d'Or, De la Fuente preferred not to reveal his favorites. However, he clearly expressed his delight if the title went to a Spanish player. Thus, despite his praise for La Pulga's legacy, the Spain coach refused to name Messi for the Ballon d'Or and said: “No, no, no... I will always be happy when a Spanish player wins it. It would be an honor for Spanish football to receive major distinctions if those responsible consider it appropriate. It would be exceptional, and we would be very happy.”

Read also: Ballon d'Or 2026: new attack against Kylian Mbappé

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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