Nigerian music star Burna Boy presented the 2026 Sócrates Award to Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka during the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday, October 26, 2026.
The award recognises footballers who make outstanding humanitarian contributions and create a positive impact in their communities beyond the football pitch.
Saka received the honour in recognition of his reported charitable efforts supporting underprivileged and vulnerable children across different parts of the world.
During the ceremony, Burna Boy also spoke about his football academy and his ambition to develop talented players who could one day compete for football’s biggest individual honours, including the Ballon d’Or.
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The event took place at the London Palladium Theatre as part of celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d’Or, first awarded to English football legend Stanley Matthews in 1956.
The ceremony also brought together leading figures from football and entertainment, highlighting the growing connection between global sports and music.
Burna Boy’s appearance added a Nigerian presence to the prestigious event, while Saka’s recognition placed a spotlight on the importance of charitable work and community development in football.
