Without a doubt, the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony has become the most significant edition of all time for Mexican football.

For the first time in the award’s 70-year history, a footballer representing Mexico took to the stage to collect an official prize.

This milestone was complemented by two unprecedented entries in the men’s and women’s voting, which shattered statistical records that had stood for decades.

Charlyn Corral: Mexico’s first trophy

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The star of the night for the whole of Mexican football in London was Charlyn Corral.

At 35, the Club Pachuca and Mexico national team striker won the prestigious Forward of the Year award.

To be more precise, she became the first Mexican female footballer to lift a trophy at the Ballon d'Or ceremony since its inception.

The award recognises a season of absolute clinical finishing in front of goal:

  • 46 matches played

  • 43 goals scored

  • 11 assists

She also finished the season as the top scorer in Mexico’s Women’s First Division.

With an established career in Europe, where she was the top scorer in the Spanish league with Atlético de Madrid, Corral cemented her status as an international star with a relentless campaign.

Julián Quiñones: the best-ever men’s ranking

In the men’s competition, Julián Quiñones broke a record that had stood for almost two decades.

The Al-Qadsiah forward finished in 28th place in the 2026 Ballon d'Or, setting the highest position ever achieved by a Mexican footballer in the official vote.

Until this year’s edition, the national record was held by Guillermo Ochoa, who in 2007 came 33rd in the overall rankings.

Quiñones’ performance during the 2025–26 season more than justified his place amongst the 30 nominees:

  • 46 competitive matches

  • 41 goals scored

  • 5 assists

The former Tigres player finished as the Saudi Pro League’s top scorer and was the Mexican national team’s leading goalscorer at the 2026 World Cup.

His consistent form in the Middle East and his decisive impact as the national team’s attacking leader secured him a place amongst the nominees for the award.

Scarlett Camberos: a pioneer in the Women’s Ballon d'Or

The third highlight of this historic day came courtesy of Scarlett Camberos.

The Club América captain became the first Mexican player to be nominated for the Women’s Ballon d'Or since the award’s inception in 2018.

Camberos finished the voting in 21st place, backed by a season in which she combined attacking leadership with team achievements:

  • 47 matches played

  • 27 goals scored

  • 7 assists

  • 2 titles

During this past season, she was crowned champion of the Liga MX Femenil Clausura Tournament and champion of the CONCACAF W Champions Cup.

Her pace, ability to break down defences and decisive influence for both América and the Mexican national team have blazed a trail for women’s football in the country on the international stage.

With a trophy in hand and two top spots in the official rankings, the 2026 Ballon d'Or will remain forever etched in the memory of the whole of Mexico.