Ballon d’Or to be held in London for first time as tribute to Sir Stanley Matthews

The prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony is set for a historic shift in 2026, with the annual football awards moving to London for the first time as organisers pay tribute to England legend Sir Stanley Matthews, the inaugural recipient of the iconic honour.

Traditionally staged in Paris, the ceremony will take place in the British capital on October 26, 2026, marking a symbolic celebration of Matthews’ legacy and England’s role in shaping the modern game. The event has previously been hosted at renowned Parisian venues, including the Thétre du Chtelet, the Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower.

Organisers said the decision carries special significance because Matthews represented the values that defined football in its purest form. Widely admired for his sportsmanship, skill, and longevity, the former Blackpool and Stoke City winger became the first player to win the Ballon d’Or in 1956.

Tribute to football’s first Ballon d’Or winner

According to News 18, in a statement explaining the move, organisers described Matthews as a player who embodied “the very best traits of Englishness” throughout his career and life in football.

They praised his dedication to entertaining supporters, commitment to fair play, and lifelong passion for the sport, adding that the award’s 70th anniversary made London the ideal setting for the celebration.

The decision also reflects the symbolic importance of England in football history, with organisers calling it the “beating heart” of the sport that first conceived the game.

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Paris tradition broken after decades

According to News 18, since its inception, the Ballon d’Or has remained closely associated with Paris and French football culture. Moving the ceremony outside France for the first time represents one of the biggest changes in the history of the award.

The Ballon d’Or remains the most prestigious individual prize in football and continues to attract global attention every year as the world’s best players compete for the coveted golden trophy.

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Dembele holds crown as Messi leads all-time list

According to News 18, current holder Ousmane Dembélé won the 2025 Ballon d’Or after guiding Paris Saint-Germain to domestic success and their maiden UEFA Champions League triumph.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi remains the most decorated player in the award’s history with eight Ballon d’Or titles. Attention will now turn to the 2026 ceremony in London, where football’s biggest stars are expected to gather for one of the sport’s landmark anniversaries.