Ballon d’Or
Ballon d’Or
Prestigious award ceremonies that bring together the leading figures in the sport often select hosts with both playing and broadcasting experience. A venue in London for the 70th edition places the event in a setting that carries its own history. The announcement of the presenters comes a week before the winners are revealed and sets the tone for the evening.
A former player who finished as runner-up in a previous edition adds a direct connection to the history of the prize. The co-host who regularly shares the screen with him on European football coverage brings familiarity for viewers. Their pairing is presented as a combination of experience that fits the scale of the occasion.
Attention remains on the race for the main award as the ceremony approaches. The event will cover multiple categories, with the outstanding individual performer of the year to be named on the night. The presence of the hosts frames the announcement of the winners.
Thierry Henry and Kate Scott will host the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26. The 70th edition of the awards will bring together some of the biggest names in world football.
Henry, who finished second in the 2003 Ballon d’Or rankings, will co-host the gala with Scott. The former France international received nine nominations during his playing career and was part of the squad that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup. He later won the UEFA Champions League in 2009 with Barcelona.
Scott is a familiar face through her work with CBS Sports in the United States, where she presents UEFA Champions League coverage. She regularly shares the screen with Henry during the broadcaster’s European football programmes. Their appointment brings together two experienced football broadcasters to lead one of the sport’s most prestigious award ceremonies.
The ceremony will take place at the London Palladium, with the winners set to be revealed across the award categories. Henry’s presence adds a notable connection to the history of the prize, having come close to winning the men’s award in 2003. The event marks the 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or.
While the choice of hosts has been confirmed, the biggest question remains who will claim the 2026 award. The leading contenders are expected to attract significant attention ahead of the ceremony. The football world awaits the announcement of the winners on the night.
Henry’s selection as co-host continues his involvement in the sport beyond his playing days. The pairing with Scott is based on their existing work together on Champions League coverage. The ceremony in London is now set for October 26, with the focus shifting to the identity of the winner.