The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is set for a historic change of scenery, with organisers confirming that football’s most prestigious individual awards night will take place in London on October 26, 2026.
The announcement, jointly made by UEFA and the L’Équipe Group, marks a major milestone as the ceremony moves outside Paris for the first time since the award’s inception. The decision forms part of celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d’Or, widely regarded as the highest individual honour in world football.
The relocation to the English capital is also intended as a tribute to English football legend Sir Stanley Matthews, who became the inaugural winner of the award in 1956. Matthews’ historic achievement has long been recognised as the beginning of the Ballon d’Or legacy, and organisers say hosting the anniversary edition in London offers a fitting homage to his contribution to the sport.
Since 2024, the Ballon d’Or has been jointly organised by UEFA and the L’Équipe Group, publishers of France Football, a partnership that has expanded the global reach and profile of the awards ceremony.
Attention is already turning toward the next edition of the prize, with performances across the 2025/26 football season and the 2026 FIFA World Cup expected to play a decisive role in determining the winners. Nominees will be unveiled after the conclusion of the European club campaign and the global tournament.
The 2026 winners will succeed current holders Ousmane Dembélé and Aitana Bonmatí, who claimed the men’s and women’s awards respectively.
Early discussions around potential contenders have already begun, with several high-profile names emerging as frontrunners. Among them are England captain Harry Kane, France forward Kylian Mbappé, and rising Spanish talent Lamine Yamal, all of whom are expected to play key roles for club and country over the coming season.
The Ballon d’Or remains one of sport’s most coveted honours, with Argentine icon Lionel Messi holding the record with eight titles, while Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo follows with five.
As anticipation builds toward the landmark 70th edition, the move to London is expected to add further prestige to an already globally celebrated night in football.
