Nigerian Star Becomes First to Present at Ceremony, Hands Sócrates Award to Bukayo Saka
Burna Boy Makes History
Burna Boy made history on Monday night. He became the first Nigerian artist to present at the Ballon d’Or. Specifically, he presented the Sócrates Award. The ceremony took place at the London Palladium. This was the 70th edition of the awards.
Award Goes to Bukayo Saka
The Grammy-winning singer handed the trophy to Bukayo Saka. Saka is an Arsenal forward. He is an England international of Nigerian heritage. The Sócrates Award honours humanitarian work. Specifically, it recognises players who contribute to social development. These contributions happen beyond the pitch.
Burna Boy Speaks on Football Academy
Burna Boy used his appearance to discuss his football academy. He explained that he founded it in Nigeria. Additionally, he wanted to support football development back home. “Something I started a few years ago,” he said. “Just to support the football culture back home.” Furthermore, he expressed a hope. “Hopefully, one day I’ll come back here,” he added. He wants to see one of his people win a Ballon d’Or.
Stage Introduction
Kate Scott introduced Burna Boy. She is one of the ceremony’s hosts. Additionally, former France international Thierry Henry introduced him. Afterwards, Burna Boy presented the trophy to Saka.
Growing Football Connection
This appearance adds to Burna Boy’s football ties. Previously, he performed at the 2023 UEFA Champions League final. That show took place in Istanbul, Turkey. Additionally, he and Wizkid released “Ballon d’Or” in 2021. The song explored the link between music and football. Consequently, his appearance amplifies his football association.
Saka Honoured for Humanitarian Work
Saka received the award for his charity work. Specifically, he works with BigShoe. The organisation provides medical assistance to children. Through this initiative, Saka supported about 120 children. These surgeries took place in Kano State, Nigeria, in 2022. He undertook the effort in honour of his Nigerian heritage. Additionally, he supported 100 more children in 2023. These procedures happened in Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Saka’s Acceptance Speech
During his speech, Saka thanked France Football. He highlighted the importance of healthy lives. Specifically, children need opportunities to pursue their ambitions. He also read a letter from Biringiro. Biringiro is a 14-year-old boy from Rwanda. His eyesight began deteriorating at age 12. BigShoe provided him with eye care. “Today, I can read the blackboard,” Biringiro wrote. He added that he can read even from the back.
Saka Reflects on Helping Children
Saka reflected on the initiative. He said helping children regain opportunities matters to him. “We know how it feels to be a child,” he said. He described the joy of having a ball at your feet. “Every time I have the opportunity to help another kid,” he added. He wants them to feel that joy again. Furthermore, he worked with his family and BigShoe. They support children lacking access to opportunities.
About the Sócrates Award
France Football established the award in 2022. The organisation collaborated with Peace and Sport. Specifically, the award is named after Sócrates. He was a late Brazilian footballer. The honour recognises humanitarian initiatives. These initiatives come from players and their foundations. Previous recipients include Sadio Mané. Additionally, Vinícius Júnior and Jenni Hermoso received it.
Historic 70th Edition
The 2026 ceremony made history. Specifically, it was the first Ballon d’Or held in London. Organisers chose the venue to mark the 70th anniversary. Harry Kane won the men’s Ballon d’Or. He is England captain and a Bayern Munich striker. Consequently, he became the first Englishman since 2001. Michael Owen won it that year. Spain’s Alexia Putellas won the women’s prize. It was her third time winning.
Other Winners
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal received the men’s young talent award. Additionally, Unai Simón won the men’s goalkeeper honour. Cata Coll won the women’s goalkeeper award. Furthermore, Paris Saint-Germain was named men’s club of the year. Barcelona took the women’s club honour.
Nigerian Ballon d’Or History
Nigerian footballers have featured in the rankings. Specifically, Nwankwo Kanu was an early nominee. Finidi George and Victor Ikpeba also featured. Victor Osimhen recorded Nigeria’s highest finish. He placed eighth in 2023. Additionally, Ademola Lookman finished 14th in 2024.
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