Nigerian music star Burna Boy presented Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka with the Socrates Award at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday, October 26. The award recognises footballers who use their influence to support humanitarian causes and contribute to society beyond the pitch.
Burna Boy appeared at the ceremony in a tailored black suit with metallic details and dark sunglasses, while Saka wore a black tuxedo and bow tie. Before presenting the award, the Grammy-winning singer spoke about his efforts to support football development in Nigeria through an academy he established several years ago.
Burna Boy expressed hope that his initiative would one day help produce a Nigerian footballer who could receive an award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony. The presentation brought together two prominent figures with Nigerian roots from the worlds of music and football, as Saka received recognition for his humanitarian contributions.
