Lionel Messi favored by Colapinto and Pasman for Ballon d'Or

Argentine racing driver Franco Colapinto and journalist Toti Pasman have expressed strong support for Lionel Messi to win the Ballon d'Or, scheduled to be awarded in London this coming Monday.

Speaking during the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix media day, Colapinto praised Messi's performance throughout 2026, noting his impact during the World Cup where he scored eight goals to lead Argentina to the final. Colapinto highlighted Messi's discipline and longevity at age 39 as an example to the sporting world.

Journalist Toti Pasman also defended Messi's candidacy, arguing that his individual performance over the full year was superior to other candidates. Pasman noted Messi's transformative effect on Inter Miami in the MLS and his record-breaking year with the Argentine national team. While acknowledging Messi did not win the World Cup final, Pasman argued his overall annual contributions outweigh the single match result.