Nigerian music star Burna Boy handed Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, bringing together two leading names from music and football.

The award was presented on Monday, October 26, at the London Palladium Theatre during the 70th edition of the prestigious football event.

Burna Boy mounted the stage to present the honour to Saka, who was celebrated for his charity work supporting underprivileged and vulnerable children across several continents.

The singer also used the moment to speak about his football academy and his dream of grooming talented players capable of one day contending for the sport’s biggest individual honours.

His presence at the ceremony brought a Nigerian music flavour to an event honouring excellence in international football.

The Sócrates Award is given to footballers who make outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes, social initiatives and their communities beyond what they do on the pitch.

Saka’s honour reflects his commitment to charitable projects aimed at improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

The 2026 ceremony was staged in London, reportedly the first time the Ballon d’Or event has been held outside France.

The venue and date also marked the award’s 70th anniversary, honouring the legacy of its first winner, English football legend Stanley Matthews.

Burna Boy presenting the award to Saka highlighted the link between entertainment, football and charity, with the moment captured in a video shared with the original report.