Burna Boy Awards Bukayo Saka for Humanitarian Efforts

At the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, Nigerian singer Burna Boy presented the 2026 Socrates Award to Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka. This award recognizes footballers who leverage their influence for humanitarian causes.

Saka was honored for his charitable work with BigShoe, an organization that provides medical assistance to children, helping them access life-changing treatments. Burna Boy highlighted Saka's contributions and expressed hope that his own football academy in Nigeria would nurture future talents for international recognition.

The Socrates Award, established in 2022 by France Football in collaboration with Peace and Sport, celebrates players who make significant humanitarian contributions. Previous recipients include Sadio Mané and Vinícius Júnior.

Burna Boy's remarks at the ceremony underscored the potential of private initiatives in developing football in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian efforts in the sport.