Press reports affirmed on Tuesday that Argentine star Lionel Messi is the runaway favorite to claim his eighth Ballon d'Or when the trophy for the world's best footballer is awarded for 2023. The 36-year-old led Argentina to World Cup glory in December for the first time since 1986 The Argentine superstar already has seven Golden Balls to his name – more than anybody else in history. He is now set to be recognised as the best player on the planet once again having inspired his country to World Cup glory at Qatar 2022. The famous Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, quoted by the Spanish newspaper Sport reports that Messi will be handed the most prestigious of individual accolades at a glitzy ceremony hosted by France Football in Paris on October 30. That award will pull him further clear of eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo – with the Al-Nassr and Portugal superstar being left on five triumphs.  Romano quoted what the Spanish press reported, indicating that Messi's Ballon d'Or win is not officially confirmed yet. The Italian added that the Golden Ball ceremony will be held on October 30 in Paris.