France Football and UEFA named Thierry Henry and Kate Scott as hosts of the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony on Monday.
The organisers made the announcement exactly one week before the event. The gala will take place on Monday, October 26, at the London Palladium.
Henry, a former France international and 2003 Ballon d’Or runner-up, will share the stage with British journalist Kate Scott. The pair regularly co-present Champions League coverage on CBS Sports in the United States.
Henry earned nine Ballon d’Or nominations during his playing career. He also won the 1998 World Cup with France and the 2009 Champions League with Barcelona.
He said: “I’m honoured to be hosting this year’s Ballon d’Or. London is the city I call home, and I have a deep connection to its football culture and the passionate fans here, so to be hosting here alongside my friend and colleague Kate feels like a natural fit. It promises to be a brilliant evening celebrating the very best of the game.”
Meanwhile, Scott has previously hosted the ceremony. She brings extensive experience as an internationally recognised sports presenter.
For the first time, the Ballon d’Or will leave its traditional Paris venue. Organisers chose London to mark the 70th edition of the award.
The ceremony will honour leading players, coaches and clubs from the past season. Winners of the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or, among other prizes, will be revealed during the evening.
