Ballon d’Or Changes Venue for Historic Tribute
The Ballon d’Or ceremony has always been held in Paris, France. As an award presented by France Football, tradition dictated that the City of Light would host the biggest stars in world football. However, this year will mark a historic change: the ceremony will take place in London.
A Historic Tribute to Sir Stanley Matthews
The reason is very special. In 2026, the Ballon d’Or celebrates the 70th anniversary of its creation, and the first winner in history was Sir Stanley Matthews. As a tribute to the English legend, France Football decided to move the gala to British soil.
Matthews won the first-ever Ballon d’Or in 1956 thanks to his spectacular performances with Stoke City and Blackpool. His elegance, technique, and longevity made him one of the most iconic figures in English and world football history. Now, seven decades later, the sport will honor the man who paved the way for every winner that followed.
Sir Stanley Matthews passed away in 2000 at the age of 85, but he remains an immortal figure in football history. That is why London will serve as the perfect setting to celebrate his legacy during what promises to be a very emotional evening.
The ceremony will take place on October 26, and the race for the award is more open than ever.
Favorites in the Women’s Category
In the women’s category, the leading contenders are Alexia Putellas and Ewa Pajor, stars of FC Barcelona, which recently won the UEFA Champions League. Both players delivered spectacular seasons and played key roles in securing the European title.
Alexia Putellas once again showcased her leadership and quality, while Ewa Pajor finished as one of the competition’s top scorers. The battle for the women’s Ballon d’Or looks extremely close.
The Race for the Men’s Award
In the men’s category, much of the decision will depend on what happens at the FIFA World Cup. The current frontrunner is Harry Kane, who is enjoying an extraordinary season with 61 goals in 51 matches, numbers that make him the most dominant striker in the world right now.
However, Ousmane Dembélé and Kylian Mbappé are close behind. Both players have real chances, and a strong performance with France at the World Cup could push them even closer to football’s most prestigious individual award.
Everything is set for October 26 in London. It promises to be a historic night filled with tributes, emotions, and stars, as football once again crowns its new kings and queens.
