Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka has received the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, with Nigerian music sensation Burna Boy presenting the honour in recognition of the footballer’s humanitarian work away from the pitch.
The award celebrates footballers who use their influence and resources to support charitable causes and improve the lives of vulnerable people. Saka was recognised for his involvement in humanitarian initiatives, particularly his work with BigShoe, an organisation that helps children access essential medical treatment.
The presentation brought together two prominent figures with Nigerian connections. While Saka represents England internationally, he has repeatedly spoken about his Nigerian heritage and the importance of supporting children in need. Burna Boy, one of Nigeria’s most successful international music stars, was invited to present the award during the prestigious ceremony.
Speaking at the event, Burna Boy revealed that he had established a football academy in Nigeria several years ago as part of his efforts to contribute to the development of the game in his home country.
The Grammy-winning musician also expressed hope that he would return to the Ballon d’Or ceremony in the future and witness another Nigerian receiving an award, highlighting his desire to see greater recognition for Nigerian talent on the global stage.
Saka’s recognition reflects charitable work that extends beyond his achievements with Arsenal. Through his involvement with BigShoe, the England international has helped fund medical procedures for children who might otherwise struggle to access the treatment they need.
Among the initiatives associated with his humanitarian efforts are operations designed to restore children’s eyesight. One particularly moving story involved a 14-year-old boy from Rwanda whose sight was restored following a charity-supported operation.
The experience demonstrated the real-life impact of Saka’s contribution, showing how support from professional footballers can make a lasting difference to children and their families.
His charitable activities also extend to communities in Britain. Saka has donated school uniforms to children in Ealing, the London area where he grew up, and provided football boots to young people involved with Street Soccer Academy, an organisation that supports people experiencing homelessness through football and employment opportunities.
Beyond financial donations, Saka has also spoken against racism and online abuse. After facing racist attacks following England’s defeat in the Euro 2020 final, he used his platform to call for stronger action against hateful messages on social media.
These efforts have helped establish a public profile that extends beyond his performances on the pitch, with the Arsenal forward using his visibility to draw attention to issues affecting children and vulnerable communities.
The Sócrates Award was introduced in 2022 to recognise humanitarian and social initiatives associated with football. Named after the late Brazilian football legend Sócrates, the award highlights the potential for people in sport to use their platforms to support meaningful causes.
For Saka, the 2026 honour represents recognition of a different side of his career, one measured not by goals, assists or trophies, but by the lives his charitable work has helped improve.
Burna Boy’s role in presenting the award also gave the ceremony a notable Nigerian connection, bringing together music and football in a moment centred on humanitarian service.
As Saka continues his career with Arsenal and England, the recognition reinforces the message that a footballer’s influence can reach far beyond the stadium, particularly when it is used to create opportunities and improve lives for those who need support.
