Arsenal legend Thierry Henry and British sports journalist Kate Scott have been announced as co-hosts of the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, scheduled for Monday, October 26, at the London Palladium.
The event marks the 70th edition of the prestigious individual football awards and will bring together some of the biggest names in world football to celebrate the outstanding performers of the 2025–26 season.
The announcement, reportedly made by France Football and UEFA on October 19, pairs one of football’s most recognisable former players with an experienced international sports broadcaster.
Thierry Henry Returns to the Ballon d’Or Stage
Henry brings an impressive football pedigree to the ceremony. The former France international won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2009 UEFA Champions League with Barcelona.
Although he never won the Ballon d’Or, Henry finished as runner-up in 2003 and received nine nominations during his playing career.
Since retiring, he has established himself as a respected football analyst, bringing his experience and insight to discussions about the modern game.
Kate Scott Joins Henry as Co-Host
Scott, known for her work on CBS Sports’ UEFA Champions League coverage in the United States, will share hosting duties with Henry.
The pair have previously worked together on broadcasts, making their reunion a familiar one for viewers who follow European football.
Their combined experience is expected to bring a mix of football expertise and professional presentation to the ceremony.
London Set to Host Historic 70th Edition
The decision to stage the ceremony in London adds historical significance to this year’s event.
Organisers reportedly selected the English capital partly as a tribute to Stanley Matthews, who became the first Ballon d’Or winner in 1956.
The London Palladium will provide the setting as the football world awaits the announcement of the winners across the award categories.
Among the high-profile names highlighted in the reported nominees are Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Michael Olise.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of October 26
With the ceremony scheduled for next Monday, attention is turning towards the final rankings and the players who will emerge as the biggest winners.
The 2026 edition will celebrate individual performances across the 2025–26 season, with the voting period reportedly running from early August 2025 through mid-July 2026.
Henry and Scott’s appointment adds another talking point ahead of the event, as supporters prepare to discover who will claim football’s most coveted individual honours.
Esther Afriyie Kumah is the Digital Media & Operations Manager and a writer AL Media Sports, the sports division of AL Media Group. She specializes in sports journalism, content and video production, covering Premier League, Champions League, La Liga, and African football with in-depth match reports, tactical analysis, player ratings, and expert insights.