FIFA “The Best” Awards Canceled - report

Photo by Pier Marco Tacca/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Lionel Messi will not be able to defend his award

Barcelona star Lionel Messi will not be able to win FIFA’s “The Best” prize again this year because the awards will not be held. According to Spanish media, this is because FIFA does not consider it a good image to host a party while coronavirus concerns are ongoing. In addition, it’s unclear how an award would be given out for a shortened season. Lastly, there are issues of possible health risks in terms of hosting a large event.

It remains to be seen if France Football’s Ballon d’Or will be awarded, although they will face similar issues. The European Golden Shoe could be awarded, although there would be an element of unfairness in doing so as Ligue 1 goalscorers will not be able to compete after the French league was canceled. Messi won both of those awards last season as well.

The UEFA Gala, usually held in late August, could be held instead in October to coincide with its usual spot in the UEFA Champions League calendar, but UEFA has not made an official decision.

Source: barcablaugranes.com