Lionel Messi's absence from the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony sparked curiosity as he received his 17th nomination. Instead of attending, he opted to remain in the U.S. for the Messi Cup, an. Lionel Messi missed the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony despite his record 17th nomination. Discover how Inter Miami commitments, travel and the Messi Cup influenced his.