Bukayo Saka Wins 2026 Sócrates Award: Arsenal Star Honoured for Humanitarian Work

Published: 27 October 2026

Bukayo Saka has added another major honour to his growing list of achievements after winning the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday, 26 October. The Arsenal and England forward was recognised for his humanitarian work and efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable children and families.

The award celebrates footballers who use their influence and resources to make a positive difference beyond the pitch. Saka’s recognition highlights how his impact extends beyond football, particularly through initiatives providing medical treatment and humanitarian support to children in need.

Burna Boy Presents the Award to Bukayo Saka

The award ceremony featured a special Nigerian connection, as award-winning Nigerian singer Burna Boy presented the Sócrates Award to Saka.

The moment brought together two internationally recognised figures of Nigerian heritage, celebrating achievements in football, music and humanitarian work on a global stage.

Saka, who represents England internationally and has Nigerian roots through his parents, was honoured for his partnership with the charity BigShoe, which helps provide medical care and humanitarian assistance to children and families facing difficult circumstances.

Helping Children Access Life-Changing Surgery in Nigeria

One of the most significant parts of Saka’s charitable work has been his support for children in Nigeria.

In 2022, Saka partnered with BigShoe to fund life-changing operations for 120 children in Kano State. The initiative helped children receive medical treatment that their families might otherwise have struggled to afford.

The following year, his support extended to children in Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania, with funding for another 100 operations reported by Nigerian media.

These initiatives demonstrate how charitable partnerships can help vulnerable families access essential healthcare and give children the opportunity to enjoy healthier lives.

Supporting Children Beyond Medical Care

Saka’s humanitarian efforts have not been limited to surgery and medical treatment. His wider charitable work with his family and partner organisations has also supported vulnerable communities.

According to the official Ballon d’Or website, Saka has contributed to initiatives including donations of school uniforms to schools in Ealing, London, and football boots for young people participating in the Street Soccer Academy.

The academy supports young people experiencing homelessness by helping them access training and employment opportunities.

His charitable activities reflect a broader commitment to helping children and young people access opportunities that can improve their futures.

Saka Shares an Emotional Story from Rwanda

During the award ceremony, Saka highlighted the story of Biringiro, a 14-year-old boy from Rwanda whose eyesight improved after receiving eye care through BigShoe.

The story illustrated the difference that access to medical treatment can make to a child’s education, independence and hopes for the future.

By sharing the boy’s experience, Saka used the international attention surrounding the Ballon d’Or ceremony to highlight the importance of supporting children who lack access to essential healthcare.

His message was a reminder that humanitarian work is not only about financial contributions but also about helping people regain opportunities that many others may take for granted.

What Is the Sócrates Award?

The Sócrates Award was introduced in 2022 by France Football in collaboration with Peace and Sport. It recognises football personalities for their humanitarian and social contributions.

Named after the late Brazilian football legend Sócrates, the award celebrates the role athletes can play in addressing social challenges and supporting people in need.

Previous recipients include Senegalese footballer Sadio Mané, Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior and Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso. In 2025, the award went to the Xana Foundation, established by former footballer and manager Luis Enrique and his family to support seriously ill children and their families.

Saka’s 2026 victory adds his name to this list of football figures recognised for making a difference away from the game.

A Proud Moment for Nigerians and Football Fans

Saka’s achievement has particular significance for Nigerians and the wider African diaspora. Although he plays for England, his Nigerian heritage remains an important part of his background, and his support for children in Nigeria has given the award a meaningful connection to communities across the country.

His success also highlights how prominent athletes can use their platforms to bring attention to humanitarian causes that might otherwise receive less visibility.

For young footballers and aspiring professionals, Saka’s recognition offers an example of how sporting success can create opportunities to support others.

Conclusion

Bukayo Saka’s Sócrates Award is a celebration of humanitarian work that reaches far beyond the football pitch. Through his partnership with BigShoe and other charitable initiatives, he has helped children access medical treatment, education-related support and opportunities for a better future.

As the Arsenal star continues his football career, this honour recognises another important part of his influence: the ability to use success in sport to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Congratulations to Bukayo Saka on winning the 2026 Sócrates Award! 🏆👏