Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka has been recognised for his humanitarian work after receiving the Socrates Award at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, following his support for children who need life-changing medical treatment in Nigeria.
The 25-year-old England international has funded 120 operations for children in Kano, northern Nigeria, through his partnership with BigShoe, a charity that helps children access medical care. The award recognises football figures who use their influence and resources to support humanitarian causes beyond the pitch.
Saka received the honour on Monday, 26 October, at the Palladium Theatre in London. Born in Ealing to Nigerian parents, the footballer has used his charitable work to support children who might otherwise struggle to access specialist treatment.
The surgeries have helped children with conditions including brain hernias and umbilical hernias. Saka’s support has also reached beyond Nigeria. According to reports on his work with BigShoe, he helped fund operations for another 100 children in Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania in 2023, extending the initiative to families in other parts of Africa.
Nigerian singer Burna Boy presented Saka with the award during the ceremony, adding a Nigerian connection to the occasion. The recognition highlights the role athletes can play in supporting humanitarian efforts, particularly initiatives that help children receive medical treatment they might otherwise be unable to afford.
After receiving the award, Saka shared a message on Instagram reflecting on his achievements both on and off the pitch.
“Some of the best things this year happened both on and off the pitch. Proud of what we’re building. Grateful to receive the Socrates Award, and continue to make an impact where we can.”
The official Ballon d’Or website confirmed Saka as the 2026 Socrates Award winner, recognising his work supporting children in need and his wider charitable efforts. The award was introduced in 2022 to recognise humanitarian work by footballers.
For Saka, the honour recognises a contribution that extends beyond his performances for Arsenal and England. Through his partnership with BigShoe, the footballer has helped fund medical operations for children in several African countries, bringing attention to the importance of access to specialist healthcare.
