Why is 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony being held in London?

The Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held in London for the very first time this year, with the London Palladium the chosen host venue.

Presented to the previous season’s best footballer and decided by votes from journalists across the world, the Ballon d’Or is the sport’s most prestigious individual honour.

Since 2019 the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris has played host to the Ballon d’Or ceremony, reflecting the award’s history after being founded by French magazine France Football 70 years ago.

It is not the first time the Ballon d’Or has been presented in England, however. Sir Stanley Matthews was presented with the inaugural trophy in the Blackpool Town Hall in 1956.

Why is the Ballon d'Or ceremony being held in London?

The aforementioned Sir Stanley is the link, with the Ballon d’Or celebrating its 70th anniversary by returning to the country of the first recipient of the trophy.

According to the Ballon d’Or organisers themselves, temporarily holding the Ballon d’Or gala in London honours both the 70th anniversary and brings the award “back to where the Ballon d’Or all began”.

The Ballon d’Or website explains: “It is fitting in such a landmark year to celebrate the finest present-day exponents of the beautiful game in the beating heart of the country that first conceived of it.

“So it was that in December 1956, Sir Stanley Matthews accepted his ultimate accolade in a small town hall in Blackpool.

“And though it was only a ceremony of sorts, and though this year’s gala is being held 250 miles south of the Lancashire coastline, it can be stated that this autumn football is coming home. Back to where the Ballon d’Or all began.”

Aside from England’s status as founders of the modern game, there are strong links to the Ballon d’Or thanks to four Englishmen winning the trophy.

Harry Kane is hoping to become the fifth on Monday evening.

Follow the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony live on Standard Sport!