Despite recording 56 direct goal contributions (34 goals, 22 assists) for Barcelona in 57 appearances last season, the Brazilian winger finished fifth in the 2025 Ballon d'Or voting. Paris Saint-Germain's Ousmane Dembele won the award, while Lamine Yamal, Vitinha and Mohamed Salah all ranked above Raphinha. After France Football and L'Equipe decide the 30-player shortlist, one journalist from each of the top 100 countries in the FIFA rankings then votes for their top 10, with points being awarded based on their position.
This conclave could have begun on May 5, but the delayed starting date of May 7 might allow the cardinals to get to know one another better and find consensus on a candidate or at least the frontrunners.
Australia's upcoming federal elections are significantly influenced by housing affordability issues, with the ruling Labor Party currently leading in the polls over the Liberal-National Coalition.