Beckham Backs Messi for 2026 Ballon d'Or After Cup Win

David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, has endorsed Lionel Messi for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, emphasizing that no player at 39 is performing at Messi's level. Beckham's remarks followed Messi's pivotal role in Inter Miami's Campeones Cup final victory over Cruz Azul, where Messi scored and assisted Casemiro, contributing to the club's fifth trophy since his arrival in 2023.

Messi's total career trophies now stands at 49. Although the Campeones Cup result does not directly influence Ballon d'Or voting criteria, it has sparked discussions on social media regarding Messi's candidacy.

Beckham argues that Messi's ability to score and create in competitive finals at 39 is exceptional, positioning him as a deserving winner of the award. The outcome of the voting panel's decision remains uncertain, but Beckham's support adds significant weight to Messi's case in the ongoing 2026 Ballon d'Or race.