Mexico experienced numerous unforgettable moments as a co-host of the 2026 World Cup, and one of their standout players has been nominated for a prestigious soccer award. Julián Quiñones has made it onto the shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming only the second Mexican player ever to receive such recognition, following the retired goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa’s nomination in 2007.
The 29-year-old forward, who plays for the Mexico national team and Saudi Pro League’s Al-Qadsiah, had an impressive season that featured remarkable individual achievements alongside a strong World Cup performance. He wrapped up the 2025 Saudi Pro League with a record of 33 goals in 31 matches, earning the league’s Golden Boot, surpassing both Ivan Toney and five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.
Quiñones continued his form into the World Cup, where Mexico co-hosted the tournament. In the opening match against South Africa, he scored the first goal for Mexico, making history as the first player from a CONCACAF country to achieve this feat at a World Cup.
Throughout the tournament, he netted three additional goals and assisted once, helping Mexico reach the round of 16 before being eliminated by England, who finished in third place after their semifinal run. Moreover, with a win over Ecuador in the round of 32, Mexico broke a 40-year streak without knockout stage victories. Quiñones’ four goals during the tournament matched the record for the most scored by a Mexican player in a single World Cup, joining the ranks of Luis Hernández and Javier Hernández.
In 2023, Quiñones switched his international allegiance from Colombia to Mexico. Prior to joining the Saudi league, he spent nearly ten years in Liga MX with clubs like Tigres UANL, Venados, Lobos BUAP, Atlas, and Club América, playing in 258 games, scoring 94 goals, and winning nine Liga MX titles, including back-to-back championships with Atlas that ended a 70-year title drought for the club.
The winner of the Ballon d’Or will be revealed on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the London Palladium, marking the first time the ceremony will take place at this venue.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer enthusiasts, as Quiñones’ nomination not only highlights his talent but also represents a growing recognition of Mexican players on the global stage. His accomplishments could inspire a new generation of players and elevate Mexico’s profile within the sport.
Source: www.foxsports.com
