Bukayo Saka won the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, recognising his outstanding humanitarian work and charitable initiatives beyond football. The Arsenal and England winger was honoured for supporting underprivileged children, funding life-changing medical operations and improving access to education and healthcare. His work demonstrates how footballers can use their influence and resources to create a meaningful difference in society.
What Is the Sócrates Award? History and Significance Explained
The Sócrates Award was established in 2022 by France Football in collaboration with Peace and Sport and the family of Brazilian football legend Sócrates. Presented during the annual Ballon d’Or ceremony, it recognises footballers who make significant humanitarian contributions and use their platform to support social causes.
The award is named after Sócrates Brasileiro, a celebrated Brazilian midfielder who was also known for his political activism and commitment to democracy. He co-founded the Corinthians Democracy movement during Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1980s.
Unlike the Ballon d’Or, which rewards sporting excellence, the Sócrates Award focuses on a player’s impact off the pitch. Its objectives include promoting social responsibility, supporting vulnerable communities and inspiring future generations through charitable work.
The award considers initiatives involving healthcare, education, social justice, inclusion and community development. Peace and Sport contributes expertise in assessing humanitarian projects, helping ensure that recognised initiatives have meaningful social impact.
Previous recipients include Sadio Mané in 2022, Vinícius Júnior in 2023, Jennifer Hermoso in 2024 and the Xana Foundation, associated with Luis Enrique and his family, in 2025.
Why Did Bukayo Saka Win the 2026 Sócrates Award?
Saka received the 2026 award for his extensive charitable work, particularly his partnership with BigShoe, an organisation that helps provide medical treatment to children in need.
One of his most significant contributions involved funding life-changing surgical operations for 120 children in Kano, Nigeria, in 2022. His wider charitable efforts have also supported children in other African countries, including Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
Through BigShoe, Saka has helped children access essential healthcare that their families might otherwise struggle to afford. The organisation has also reported support for health check-ups, health insurance and improved facilities for communities in Rwanda.
Beyond healthcare, Saka donated more than 1,000 school uniforms to four schools in Ealing, the London area where he grew up. He also donated over 100 pairs of football boots to participants at the Street Soccer Academy, which supports young people experiencing homelessness and helps them access employment opportunities.
These initiatives demonstrate his commitment to improving children's lives through healthcare, education and sport.
What Makes Saka's Sócrates Award Win Special?
Saka's achievement highlights the importance of humanitarian contributions alongside sporting success. By supporting children who need medical treatment, helping students access education and providing opportunities for vulnerable young people, he has demonstrated how professional footballers can make a lasting difference beyond the game.
His 2026 Sócrates Award win also reinforces the message behind the honour: football's influence extends far beyond the pitch.