Lionel Messi is currently described as the favorite to win the upcoming Ballon d'Or award [1].

The development is significant because a victory would further cement Messi's legacy as one of the greatest footballers in history, potentially extending his record for the most individual honors in the sport.

Analysis from DHnet said that only Messi can make the improbable seem entirely possible [3]. This sentiment follows a period of high performance and a recent World Cup triumph that has repositioned the Argentine professional footballer as a frontrunner [1].

Market data from the betting platform Polymarket reflects this shift, with reports indicating that Messi is now the favorite for the award [2]. Some reports suggest he is pursuing a ninth individual Ballon d'Or title [2].

Messi has previously won the Ballon d'Or eight times [1]. This total stands in contrast to other historical data, such as a report from L’Équipe stating that Cristiano Ronaldo had equaled Messi's total when Ronaldo won his fifth award [4].

In Argentina, the perception of the athlete has reached a peak. An editorial from Le Parisien said Messi is now "untouchable forever" [1]. This status is bolstered by his historic standing within his home country, and his continued influence on the global game [1].

While some reports highlight the competition from other players, the current momentum in both betting markets and media analysis favors the Argentine [2], [3].

“Messi is now "untouchable forever"”

The positioning of Messi as the favorite reflects a convergence of sporting achievement and market speculation. While contradictory reports exist regarding historical win counts, the current trajectory suggests that his recent international success outweighs the achievements of his contemporaries in the eyes of voters and bettors.