Clarifying Ballon d'Or criteria

I realize that the Ballon d'Or awards are based on seasons rather than calendar years, with France Football switching to a season-based approach since 2022. The next awarding in 2026 will cover the 2025-26 season, which includes the World Cup in summer 2026. Since the award is given in October after the season ends in May, this means that the World Cup will indeed be part of the Ballon d'Or consideration for that year.Discussing Ballon d'Or and World Cup

I noted that the 2022 World Cup was included in the 2022-23 Ballon d'Or, helping Messi win in 2023. This raises questions for the 2026 award; since the World Cup will occur in June-July 2026 at the end of the 2025-26 season, it will likely influence the Ballon d'Or given out in October 2026. Those who perform well in the World Cup will gain a significant advantage. Also, the expansion to 48 teams and 104 matches will affect tournament logistics and player strategies.Analyzing future soccer contenders

I’m considering the key nations for upcoming competitions. France has Mbappe in his prime, and England boasts talented players like Bellingham and Kane. Brazil and Argentina offer exciting prospects, but can Argentina manage post-Messi? Spain’s young talents, like Lamine Yamal, will be promising too. Reflecting on the Ballon d'Or, contenders include Mbappé, Haaland, and Bellingham. For the 2026 narrative, the new FIFA Club World Cup format and shifting European competitions could influence player fatigue and team performance.