London to host Ballon d’Or for first time in October as part of 70th anniversary tribute | OneFootball

The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony will take place in London for the first time this October.

Football's biggest individual award will host it's ceremony in London for the first time, in celebration of the 70th anniversary of theBallon d'Or.

The move to the UK is a tribute to Englishman Sir Stanley Matthews, who was the award's inaugural winner in 1956.

A statement on the decision said: "The Ballon d’Or®, the most prestigious and distinguished award in the world of football, created by France Football in 1956, will celebrate its 70th anniversary by holding this year’s ceremony in London, England, on 26 October for the very first time.

"Presented annually by France Football (owned by L'Équipe Group), the award has been co-organised with UEFA since 2024, and this symbolic choice of venue pays tribute to English footballer Sir Stanley Matthews, the award’s inaugural winner 70 years ago."

The awards will take place on October 26th, with England captain Harry Kane among the current favourites.

Current holder, Ousmane Dembele, is also thought to be in the running, alongside Declan Rice, Michael Olise and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The official nominees will be revealed later this year.

Spanish midfielder Aitana Bonmatí won The Ballon d'Or Féminin in 2025 for the third consecutive year.