Messi named Ballon d'Or winner for a record-breaking eighth time

Argentina talisman honoured again, as Man City pick up team of the year, and Jude Bellingham named best U21 starlet

WINNER: Lionel Messi claims an eighth Ballon D'Or Ceremony at Theatre Du Chatelet in Paris, France. Pic: Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

Argentina captain Lionel Messi won a record-extending eighth Ballon d'Or for the best player in the world on Monday, beating Norway's UEFA player of the year and treble winner Erling Haaland of Manchester City to the prestigious prize.

Inter Miami's Messi, who last won the award in 2021, played a pivotal role in guiding Argentina to their first World Cup title in 36 years in Qatar last season.