Ballon d'Or heartbreak! Kvaratskhelia could miss prestigious ceremony after devastating injury
From Champions League glory to a devastating personal nightmare! Khvicha Kvaratskhelia could miss one of football's most prestigious evenings after suffering a serious knee injury against Barcelona.
Details: According to The Touchline, citing L'Équipe, Kvaratskhelia's attendance at the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony is now uncertain. The Paris Saint-Germain winger suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Tuesday's 4-2 Champions League victory over Barcelona. The injury has been medically confirmed, and the Georgian international is expected to undergo surgery. However, no official decision regarding his attendance at Monday's ceremony has been announced.
The prestigious ceremony will take place on October 26 at the London Palladium, marking the 70th edition of the Ballon d'Or. Kvaratskhelia is among the 30 nominees for the men's award after his outstanding performances for PSG. Missing the event would be another painful consequence of an injury that has already jeopardised the remainder of his season.
The 25-year-old was forced off during the second half against Barcelona and needed assistance leaving the pitch. Subsequent examinations confirmed the severity of his knee injury. Recovery from ACL surgery commonly requires many months, meaning the Georgian faces an extended period away from competitive football.
His possible absence would be especially disappointing after helping PSG establish themselves among Europe's strongest teams. The club had previously included Kvaratskhelia among its leading Ballon d'Or candidates. Now, instead of preparing for a glamorous evening in London, the winger must focus on treatment and rehabilitation.
It's worth noting that the ceremony begins at 20:00 GMT on Monday, October 26. Kvaratskhelia remains a nominee regardless of whether he attends. His participation in the event has not been ruled out officially.
Reminder: Official: Kvaratskhelia's injury severity revealed.
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
