Bukayo Saka wins 2026 Sócrates award as Burna Boy presents honour
Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka has won the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, with Nigerian music superstar Burna Boy presenting the honour.
The award recognises footballers who make outstanding contributions to social and humanitarian causes, celebrating their efforts to create positive change beyond the pitch.
Burna Boy’s presentation brought Nigerian heritage into the spotlight at one of football’s biggest awards ceremonies, highlighting the growing presence of Nigerian talent on the global stage.
Burna Boy makes history as the first African artiste to present an award at the 2026 Ballon d’Or, presenting the Socrates Award to Arsenal superstar Bukayo Saka in London.
The African Giant continues to fly the continent’s flag high.
Saka’s recognition underscores the importance of social responsibility in football and the impact players can make through humanitarian initiatives.