Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi will not attend the 2026 awards ceremony, opting instead to focus on the Messi Cup, a youth football tournament organized under his name.
As reported by İdman.Biz, citing Vietnamese outlet Vietnam, the Argentina national team captain attended the opening ceremony of the U16 tournament on October 26.
Now in its second edition, the competition has expanded significantly compared to last year. While the inaugural tournament featured eight teams, this year's event brings together 16 clubs from Europe, South America and North America.
Among the participants are leading European clubs Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal.
South America is represented by River Plate, Boca Juniors, Palmeiras and Flamengo, while Messi's current club, Inter Miami, is hosting the tournament.
During the opening ceremony, Messi addressed the young players, expressing his hope that the competition would provide talented footballers with opportunities to compete, learn and gain valuable experience.
According to Argentine media reports, Messi plans to attend matches throughout the tournament, which runs from October 26 to November 2.
He may be accompanied by close friends Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, as well as members of his family.
Despite his commitments with Inter Miami, the Argentine star is expected to devote as much time as possible to the competition.
