Ballon d’Or 2026: London to host historic ceremony as Kane and Yamal chase Dembele’s crown

• The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held in London for the first time in history.

• Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal are among the leading contenders to succeed Ousmane Dembélé.

• The event marks continued UEFA–France Football partnership and a symbolic return to the award’s English origins.

The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is set to break new ground after UEFA confirmed that the prestigious event will be staged in London, England, for the first time in its history. The decision marks a major shift for football’s most celebrated individual award, which has traditionally been held in Paris since its inception.

UEFA and France Football have officially announced that the 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or will take place on October 26, 2026, in London. The move represents a landmark moment for English football and reflects the growing internationalization of the award.

Organizers noted that the choice of London carries symbolic weight, paying tribute to Sir Stanley Matthews, the first-ever recipient of the Ballon d’Or in 1956. The relocation is intended to honor the award’s heritage while broadening its global appeal.

The 2026 edition will feature a highly competitive race to succeed current men’s winner Ousmane Dembélé, who claimed the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Among the leading contenders is England captain Harry Kane, who enjoyed a prolific season with Bayern Munich, scoring 61 goals and registering seven assists across all competitions. His performances helped the German giants secure domestic silverware, further strengthening his case for the award.

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is also expected to challenge strongly after another standout campaign. The teenager delivered 24 goals and 18 assists in 45 appearances, playing a key role in Barcelona’s La Liga triumph and continuing his rapid rise in world football.

The London ceremony will be the third edition organized under the partnership between UEFA and Groupe Amaury, the owners of France Football and L’Équipe. Since joining forces in 2024, both organizations have worked to enhance the global profile of the award.

Officials said hosting the ceremony in England reflects a broader strategy to rotate the Ballon d’Or among major football nations, increasing its global reach and visibility.

With elite nominees, historic symbolism, and a new host city, the 2026 Ballon d’Or in London is expected to attract unprecedented global attention.