Julián Quiñones Becomes Second Mexican Player Nominated
Julián Quiñones has been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, becoming the second Mexican player in history to receive the honor, following an impressive season and World Cup performance.
Julián Quiñones Becomes Second Mexican Player Nominated
According to Foxsports.
Why this is important
Julián Quiñones' nomination for the 2026 Golden Ball Award is not only a personal honor but also an important milestone for Mexican football. He became the second Mexican player in history to receive this recognition, following the success of Guillermo Ochoa. This further highlights the development of Mexican football in the context of them co-hosting the 2026 World Cup.
Main point
- Julián Quiñones Becomes Second Mexican Player Nominated.
- Julián Quiñones has been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, becoming the second Mexican player in history to receive this honor, after an impressive season and World Cup performance.
- Julián Quiñones Becomes Second-Ever Mexican Player Nominated For Ballon d'Or | FOX Sports.
Mexico made its mark in football history as one of the countries co-hosting the 2026 World Cup and one of their outstanding players, Julián Quiñones, was on the nomination list for the 2026 Golden Ball Award. This made him the second Mexican player in history to be nominated for this prestigious award, after goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who received a nomination in 2007.
Julián Quiñones, 29 years old, currently plays for the Mexican national team and Al-Qadsiah club in the Saudi Arabian National League. Last season, he scored 33 goals in 31 matches, winning the title of top scorer of the tournament, surpassing both Ivan Toney and Cristiano Ronaldo, the star who won the Golden Ball five times.
Quiñones has carried this impressive form into the World Cup, where Mexico is one of three co-hosts. In the opening match against South Africa, he scored Mexico's first goal of the tournament, becoming the first player from a CONCACAF country to score in the opening match of a World Cup. He went on to score three more goals and have an assist, helping Mexico advance to the round of 16 before being eliminated by England. England finished third after reaching the semi-finals.
Notably, Mexico also ended a 40-year drought of not being able to qualify for the knockout round with a victory in the round of 32 against Ecuador. With four goals at the tournament, Quiñones joined the list of only Mexican players to score four goals in a single World Cup, equaling the achievement of Luis Hernandez and Javier Hernandez.
Quiñones changed his national citizenship from Colombia to Mexico in 2023. Before moving to Saudi Arabia, he spent nearly a decade playing in Liga MX for clubs such as Tigres UANL, Venados, Lobos BUAP, Atlas and Club América, with 258 matches, scoring 94 goals and winning nine Liga MX championships, including two consecutive championships with Atlas in 2021 and 2022, ending this club's 70-year title drought.
The winner of the Ballon d'Or will be announced on October 26, 2026. The award ceremony will take place at the London Palladium in England, the first time the event has been held there.
What happens next
With impressive performance at the 2026 World Cup, Julián Quiñones could attract attention from top clubs globally. His success could open up new opportunities for both his club and national team careers. Fans will closely monitor his next steps next season and his ability to participate in bigger tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Julian Quiñones?
Julián Quiñones is a Mexican football player, currently playing for Al-Qadsiah club and the Mexico national team.
How many goals did Quiñones score last season?
In the past season, Julián Quiñones scored 33 goals in 31 matches.
Who is the first Mexican player to be nominated for the Ballon d'Or?
The first Mexican player to be nominated for the Golden Ball Award was Guillermo Ochoa in 2007.
What achievements did Mexico have at the 2026 World Cup?
At the 2026 World Cup, Mexico advanced to the round of 16 and Julián Quiñones scored four goals.
Where did Quiñones change his nationality from?
Julián Quiñones changed his nationality from Colombia to Mexico in 2023.
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