Official: Inter’s Lautaro Martínez comes 22nd in 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings

Official: Inter’s Lautaro Martínez comes 22nd in 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings Inter captain Lautaro Martínez has finished 22nd in the 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings, with the winner still due to be announced at tonight’s ceremony in London. The Argentine was the only Serie A player on the 30-man shortlist for the 70th edition of the award, which will be presented at the London Palladium for the first time. It was Lautaro’s fifth Ballon d’Or nomination, making him the Inter player with the third-most nominations in the club’s history, behind Sandro Mazzola and Giacinto Facchetti. His best finish remains seventh in 2024, while he came 20th last year. CORDOBA, ARGENTINA – SEPTEMBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of Argentina warms up prior to the international friendly match between Argentina and Bolivia at Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium on September 30, 2026 in Cordoba, Argentina. (Photo by Luciano Bisbal/Getty Images) Lautaro’s 2025-26 season The striker earned his place on the shortlist after an outstanding campaign, captaining Inter to the Scudetto and Coppa Italia and finishing as Serie A’s top scorer with 17 goals in 30 appearances. He also impressed at the World Cup, scoring three goals for Argentina, including the winner in the semi-final against England. MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 08: Lautaro Martinez of Internazionale looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 08, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) However, Inter’s campaign was not without disappointment, as they were knocked out of the Champions League by Bodø/Glimt. Lautaro is currently sidelined with a hamstring strain picked up earlier this month and is not expected back until next month.