Nigerian music star Burna Boy presented Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka with the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in recognition of the footballer’s humanitarian efforts and charitable work with BigShoe, an organisation that provides medical assistance to children in need.

Before presenting the award, Burna Boy spoke about his football academy in Nigeria and his ambition to nurture local talents capable of competing at the highest level of the game. The singer expressed hope that the academy would eventually produce players who could earn international recognition and receive prestigious honours at events such as the Ballon d’Or.

“Most definitely, one of them is standing right there. That’s for my people back home. It is something that we started a few years ago just to support the football culture back home and hopefully, one day, I will come back here to see one of my people getting an award in Ballon d’Or,” Burna Boy said.

Saka received the Sócrates Award for his charitable contributions through BigShoe, which supports children requiring medical treatment. The Arsenal star used his acceptance speech to draw attention to the importance of providing access to healthcare, sharing an emotional letter from a 14-year-old boy in Rwanda whose eyesight improved after receiving medical care through the organisation.

The Sócrates Award recognises footballers who use their platform, resources and influence to promote humanitarian causes and improve lives beyond the football pitch. Saka’s recognition highlighted his commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

Following the presentation, Burna Boy congratulated Saka with a warm embrace before leaving the footballer to enjoy the moment. The exchange brought together two prominent figures from Nigeria and the United Kingdom’s cultural and sporting scenes.

Burna Boy’s remarks about his football academy underscored his commitment to supporting grassroots football in Nigeria and developing homegrown talent. His ambition, he explained, is to see Nigerian players rise through the ranks and eventually achieve the kind of global recognition celebrated at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.