CORNERFLICK
Javier Tebas has backed Rodri to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, saying the Spain midfielder’s World Cup performance should carry more weight than his long injury absence last season.
Tebas makes his pick
According to Futbالی, Tebas said Rodri deserves the prize again after a standout tournament for Spain at the 2026 World Cup. He argued that the midfielder’s spell out injured should not overshadow what he did on the biggest stage of the year.
Rodri played a central role as Spain won the World Cup and finished the tournament with the Golden Ball as its best player. He had already won the Ballon d’Or in 2024.
Tight race ahead
The race remains open, with Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal and Harry Kane also named among the main contenders. Their form across the season, and especially at the World Cup, is expected to shape the final vote.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is due to take place in London on 26 October.
Tebas put his view plainly: “I think Rodri should win the Ballon d’Or again.”