Nigerian singer Burna Boy presented the Socrates Award to Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday.

The award recognises footballers for outstanding humanitarian work. Saka received the honour for his long-standing partnership with the charity BigShoe, which provides medical care and support for children and families in need.

Through the initiative, Saka has helped fund life-changing surgeries for children in Nigeria and other parts of Africa, as well as emergency housing for families affected by natural disasters.

Before handing over the award, Burna Boy spoke briefly about his own football academy in Nigeria, expressing hope that young talents from the country would one day feature at the Ballon d’Or.

Saka, accepting the award, shared an emotional letter from a young boy in Rwanda whose eyesight was restored through the charity’s work. He dedicated the recognition to the children who have benefited from the projects.

The Socrates Award, named after the late Brazilian footballer and activist Sócrates, was first presented in 2022. Previous winners include Sadio Mané and Vinícius Júnior.

The presentation added a notable Nigerian presence to the ceremony, which also saw Harry Kane claim the men’s Ballon d’Or.