French football manager Thierry Henry and British journalist Kate Scott have been confirmed as hosts of the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, which will take place at London’s Palladium on October 26.
The event will mark 70th anniversary in a grand fashion this year, bringing together celebrities from world football.
The event will also pay tribute to England’s own Sir Stanley Matthews, who won the inaugural Ballon d’Or in 1956.
However, Henry won the Ballon d’Or during his highly successful football career, where he was nominated nine times, finishing on the podium twice and coming closest in 2003 when he finished second to Pavel Nedved.
Henry stated his love for the city’s football culture, having played for North London side Arsenal in his prime.
“I am honored to be hosting this year’s, Ballon d’Or. London is the city I call home and I have a deep connection to its football culture and the passionate fans here…it promises to be brilliant evening celebrating the very best of the game,” Henry said.
Kate expressed her gratitude for hosting the football award ceremony again.
“Having hosted it in 2014 and 2015, and then as a co-host in 2025, alongside Dutch football legend, Ruud Gullit. What an iconic night on the football calendar and the pinnacle of individual achievement in the game,” Kate said.
In the men shortlisted winners are the current holder Ousmane Dembélé, eight-time winner Lionel Messi and 2024 winner Rodri, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland and Arsenal’s Declan Rice, Gabriel and William Saliba, among others.
In the women’s shortlisted winners are Alexia Putellas, a two-time winner, Arsenal forwards Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo are among nominees, alongside Barcelona stars Caroline Graham Hansen, Ewa Pajor and Clàudia Pina, among others.
