Cristiano Ronaldo Handsomeness Will Win 2016 Ballon d'Or, Says Hristo Stoichkov

Barcelona legend Hristo Stoichkov has joked that Cristiano Ronaldo will win this year's Ballon d'Or because of his looks.

The Bulgarian was quizzed on the award when speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena COPE (h/t ESPN FC). He believes Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann and Ronaldo's Real team-mate Gareth Bale could be in contention but will miss out to the Portuguese superstar: "Griezmann is blowing everyone away and playing some spectacular football. But they'll probably give it to [Ronaldo] again for being guapo [handsome]!"

As for Bale, his best chance of winning it will be if Wales "reach the final" of UEFA Euro 2016, according to Stoichkov.

Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated the Ballon d'Or in recent years, claiming the last eight in a row between them.

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Bale and Griezmann have enjoyed outstanding domestic campaigns and been two of the standout stars of Euro 2016. They, along with Ronaldo, will be competing in the semi-finals as they look to bring international success to their teams.

Football writer Sid Lowe is unhappy with the notion that Portugal's match with Wales on Wednesday translates into a battle for the Ballon d'Or:

While he has a point—as he does in rejecting the idea that winning the UEFA Europa League is more important for UEFA Champions League qualification than lifting the trophy itself—the match could have a big impact on Bale, Ronaldo and Griezmann's chances.

Should one of them play a key role in winning the European Championship for their country, it will enhance their Ballon d'Or credentials.