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Fakayejo Paul
Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Sócrates Award at the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony held at the London Palladium.
The award, established in 2022 and named after Brazilian football legend Sócrates, recognizes players who build social impact outside the sport by using their global platform and resources to support humanitarian, educational, and healthcare causes.
Nigerian music superstar Burna Boy presented the trophy to Saka on stage.
Key Humanitarian Initiatives Honored 🌍
- Medical Surgeries Across Africa: In partnership with charity BigShoe, Saka funded 120 life-changing surgeries for children in Nigeria and across the continent suffering from hernia and brain issues.
- Disaster Relief:Supported relief funds that provided medical care and emergency shelters for displaced families affected by earthquakes in Turkey and Morocco.
- Grassroots & Youth Outreach:Donated over 1,000 school uniforms to schools in Ealing (including his childhood alma mater Greenford High School) and supplied 100+ football boots to the Street Soccer Academy to fight youth homelessness in London.
What He Said On Stage 💬
“I remember when I was their age and had huge dreams. The message I want to convey is: keep dreaming, keep believing and go after your goals… For me, it’s really important to use my skills to make a positive impact whenever I can.”