World Cup 2026 shapes Ballon d'Or race and Morocco coach renewal
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation confirmed that Mohamed Ouahbi will remain as head coach after the national team reached the quarter‑finals of the 2026 World Cup. The federation highlighted the team's progress from 84th to 6th in the FIFA rankings and stressed continuity rather than a new coaching cycle.
During the tournament, Spanish midfielder Rodri Hernández saw his Ballon d’Or odds plunge dramatically, with bookmakers cutting his price from 101.00 to 15.00 after standout performances in the knockout stages. Analysts note that the World Cup will likely decide the award, with candidates such as Lionel Messi, Rodri, Lamine Yamal and others.
The Ballon d’Or organisers confirmed that 39‑year‑old Lionel Messi remains eligible despite playing for Inter Miami, underscoring the award’s global eligibility rules that no longer restrict candidates to European clubs. Commentary also highlighted the historic “curse” whereby the reigning Ballon d’Or winner rarely wins the World Cup, and suggested that Rodri could break the pattern if Spain triumphs.