Pau Cubarsí to miss Ballon d'Or ceremony due to illness

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí has pulled out of the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony in London despite nominations for the main prize and the Kopa Trophy.

• Cubarsí decided to miss Monday's ceremony at the London Palladium despite being nominated for the Ballon d'Or and the Kopa Trophy.
• He played the Clásico against Real Madrid while running a fever, and Barcelona lost 1-2.
• Spanish outlet Sport reported the defender needs rest to recover before returning to training and matches.
• The ceremony at the London Palladium marks the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d'Or.