The organizers of the Ballon d'Or have just announced that London will host the 2026 awards ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place on October 26th, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the world's most prestigious individual award.
This decision has drawn attention because the Ballon d'Or has for many years been associated with the capital city of Paris. Moving the awards ceremony to London therefore becomes a special highlight, not only creating a fresh feeling but also carrying symbolic significance for English football.
The European Football Federation (UEFA) stated that London was chosen to honor Sir Stanley Matthews, the legendary English footballer and the first winner of the Ballon d'Or in 1956. After 70 years, the award returns to the homeland of its first recipient as a way to commemorate this historic milestone.
English football legend Sir Stanley Matthews won the first Ballon d'Or in history in 1956. Photo: Blackpool FC
The exact location of the awards ceremony in London has not yet been announced. However, the fact that the British capital is hosting the event for the first time is already generating significant interest, especially given the abundance of outstanding figures in English football at both club and national team levels.
The Ballon d'Or award, established by France Football magazine in 1956, has since become the most prestigious benchmark for the best individual players in world football.
Since 2024, the award has been organized by France Football in collaboration with UEFA.
Forward Ousmane Dembele will win the 2025 Ballon d'Or. Photo: One Football
PSG striker Ousmane Dembele won the men's Ballon d'Or, while Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati was honored in the women's category at last year's awards ceremony.
This year's race is highly anticipated, as the players' performances at the 2026 World Cup could significantly impact the voting results.
The allure of the Ballon d'Or remains immense, as it has historically been dominated by some of the world's leading icons.
Superstar Lionel Messi currently holds the record with 8 wins, while Cristiano Ronaldo has been honored 5 times.
Lionel Messi holds the record with 8 Ballon d'Or awards. Photo: AP
The fact that London will host the 2026 Ballon d'Or also opens up an interesting scenario for the stars of English football.
England captain Harry Kane could become one of the notable names in the race if he continues his impressive goalscoring form and makes his mark at the 2026 World Cup.
Source: https://nld.com.vn/quyet-dinh-bat-ngo-ve-qua-bong-vang-nam-2026-196260529100956727.htm
Comment (0)