How World Cup final could be pivotal in Ballon d'Or race

Lamine Yamal is hoping to claim the Ballon d'Or for the first time, while Lionel Messi is looking to win his ninth [Getty Images]When Spain and Argentina meet in Sunday's World Cup final, the thought of lifting the famous trophy will be the only thing on the players' minds.However, the result at New York New Jersey Stadium could prove significant beyond crowning the world champions - it could effectively decide who wins the 2026 Ballon d'Or.The era of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominatio