The football world has been sent into a frenzy following widespread speculation that FIFA is preparing to take a leading role in the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, potentially marking one of the biggest changes in the history of football’s most prestigious individual award.
For decades, the Ballon d’Or has been presented by France Football, with UEFA becoming a co-organiser in recent years. FIFA, meanwhile, has operated its own separate annual honours through The Best FIFA Football Awards. Reports claiming that FIFA will “take over” the 2026 Ballon d’Or have sparked major debate across the football community, with fans wondering whether football’s two biggest individual awards could once again be united. However, there has been no official announcement confirming that FIFA will take over the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Current information indicates that the Ballon d’Or remains organised by France Football in partnership with UEFA, while FIFA continues to run its own awards.
If such a move were ever to happen, it would represent a significant moment in football history. FIFA and France Football previously merged their awards between 2010 and 2015 under the FIFA Ballon d’Or, before ending their partnership in 2016 and returning to separate award ceremonies.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is currently scheduled to take place in London on 26 October, with stars including Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Rodri and Kylian Mbappé among the names widely discussed as contenders following the World Cup.
As speculation continues, football supporters around the globe will be watching closely for any official statement regarding the future of football’s most coveted individual prize.
