Nigerian singer Burna Boy presented Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka with the Socrates Award at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday, October 26.
The presentation took place at the London Palladium, which hosted the 70th edition of the annual football awards. The ceremony recognises achievements across professional football, alongside contributions to humanitarian and social causes.
The Socrates Award recognises football figures who use their influence to support social initiatives. Saka’s recognition is linked to his charitable work, including his involvement with BigShoe, an organisation that helps provide medical treatment to children in need.
Burna Boy’s joined other performers at the event, including British singer Jorja Smith, who performed “Blue Lights.” French Montana was also among the musical acts announced for the ceremony.
Burna Boy and Wizkid previously collaborated on ‘Ballon d’Or’, a track released in 2022. The song shares its name with football’s annual individual award.”
Kylian Mbappé at the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony
The event also drew attention following confusion over the announcement of this year’s top honours. Earlier in the day, the official Ballon d’Or website briefly published articles naming Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé as winners. Organisers said the articles were prepared profiles published by mistake and did not represent confirmed results.
At the time of writing, the winner of the men’s Ballon d’Or had not yet been officially announced.
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