Bukayo Saka Wins 2026 Sócrates Award for Humanitarian Work at Ballon d’Or

Posted : 27 October 2026

Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka has won the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, recognising his charitable work and efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable children. Nigerian music star Burna Boy presented the honour to the 25-year-old footballer on Monday, October 26.

The award celebrates football figures who use their influence and resources to support humanitarian causes and create positive social change beyond the pitch. Saka received the recognition for his partnership with BigShoe, a charitable organisation that helps children access essential medical treatment.

One of the most significant aspects of Saka’s charitable work has been his support for children requiring life-changing surgery. Through his collaboration with BigShoe, he helped fund operations for 120 children in Kano, Nigeria, in 2022. The initiative later extended to other African countries, including Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania, helping more children receive medical care they might otherwise struggle to afford.

Saka’s contribution also reflects his strong connection to Nigeria, the homeland of his parents. The Arsenal winger has spoken about the importance of supporting children who lack access to opportunities and healthcare, using his success in football to make a meaningful difference in their lives.

During the award ceremony, Saka highlighted the impact of the initiative by sharing the story of a young beneficiary from Rwanda whose eyesight was restored following treatment supported by BigShoe. The child explained how the operation had improved his ability to read at school and given him renewed confidence about his future.

Beyond healthcare, Saka has supported educational and community initiatives in the United Kingdom. His charitable activities have included donating school uniforms to pupils in Ealing, the London area where he grew up, and providing football boots to young people involved in the Street Soccer Academy, which helps tackle youth homelessness through training and employment opportunities.

The 2026 award adds Saka to a distinguished list of previous recipients, including Senegalese forward Sadio Mané, Brazilian star Vinícius Júnior and Spanish international Jenni Hermoso. Established in 2022, the Sócrates Award is named after the late Brazilian footballer, who was celebrated for his commitment to social activism as well as his achievements on the pitch.

Burna Boy’s role in presenting the award added a Nigerian connection to the ceremony. The Grammy-winning singer also spoke about his own efforts to support football development in Nigeria through a football academy, expressing hope that more Nigerian talents would eventually gain recognition on the global stage.

Saka’s recognition highlights how footballers can use their international platforms to address challenges beyond the sport. While he continues to play a key role for Arsenal and England, his humanitarian work has earned him recognition for a different kind of achievement — improving lives through access to healthcare, education and community support.

Bukayo Saka Wins 2026 Sócrates Award for Humanitarian Work at Ballon d’Or

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