Ballon d’Or ceremony moves to London

The Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held in London on Monday, October 26, marking the first time the event takes place outside of France. This shift in location is part of the award’s ongoing efforts to expand its global reach and audience.

Performers confirmed for the event

The ceremony will feature performances by American rapper French Montana and English singer Jorja Smith at the London Palladium. French Montana is known for hits like "No Stylist" with Drake and "Unforgettable" with Swae Lee, whose music video has over 1.9 billion views on YouTube.

Jorja Smith’s musical background and style

Jorja Smith is an English songwriter and performer who blends RnB, soul, and jazz. Her music draws from her Jamaican heritage and classical music training, and she gained recognition a decade ago with the song "Blue Lights."

Additional surprises planned

According to L’Équipe, the group that owns France Football magazine, the ceremony will include "other surprises." L’Équipe has been responsible for awarding the Ballon d’Or since 1956, with the most recent winners being Ousmane Dembélé of France and Aitana Bonmati of Spain in 2025.

Event timing and broadcasting details

The ceremony is set to begin at 20:00 in London (21:00 in Paris) after the traditional red carpet. It will be broadcast on DAZN and the L’Équipe channel in France, with hosting duties shared by former French international Thierry Henry and sports journalist Kate Scott.