The 2026 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony is set to take place in London on Monday, 26 October, with the world’s leading footballers competing for one of the sport’s most prestigious individual honours.
The awards recognise outstanding performances by players, coaches and clubs across several categories. The Ballon d’Or was first introduced by French magazine France Football in 1956. Since 2024, the ceremony has been organised in partnership with European football’s governing body, Uefa.
Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele won the men’s Ballon d’Or in 2025, while Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmati claimed the women’s award.
The ceremony is expected to attract considerable attention as football fans await the announcement of this year’s winners. The awards are based on individual performances, team achievements, a player’s influence on the game and sporting conduct.
Other honours include awards for the best goalkeeper, best young player, best coach and best club, as well as recognition for leading goalscorers. The Socrates Award also honours individuals involved in humanitarian and social initiatives.
The 2026 ceremony marks another chapter in the history of the Ballon d’Or, which remains one of football’s most closely followed annual awards.
