Thierry Henry and Kate Scott to Host Ballon d’Or

Thierry Henry and Kate Scott to Host Ballon d’Or 2026

Thierry Henry and Kate Scott have officially been confirmed as the hosts of the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, bringing together two familiar faces from football broadcasting to lead one of the sport’s most prestigious award nights.

The 70th edition of the ceremony will take place at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26, 2026. The event will celebrate the outstanding individual performers in football, with the winners of the major awards set to be revealed.

Thierry Henry to Host Ballon d’Or for the First Time

The appointment marks a new milestone for Henry, the former Arsenal and Barcelona forward who remains one of the most recognisable figures in world football.

The French legend finished second in the 2003 Ballon d’Or voting and received nine nominations during his playing career, but never won the individual award.

Henry enjoyed an exceptional career, winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup with France and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona in 2009. His experience at the highest level of the game makes him a fitting choice to help celebrate football’s leading stars.

Hosting the ceremony in London also carries personal significance for Henry, who has a strong connection to the English capital following his celebrated years at Arsenal.

Kate Scott Returns After Hosting in 2025

Henry will share the stage with British sports journalist and presenter Kate Scott, who returns after co-hosting last year’s ceremony alongside former Netherlands international Ruud Gullit.

Scott is widely recognised for her work with CBS Sports, where she presents UEFA Champions League coverage and regularly appears alongside Henry, Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards.

Their established working relationship could bring a familiar chemistry to the ceremony, combining Henry’s experience as a former world-class player with Scott’s broadcasting expertise.

Both presenters have expressed excitement about the occasion, which will bring together footballers, coaches and other leading figures from across the sport.

Who Will Win the 2026 Ballon d’Or?

While the hosts have now been confirmed, the biggest question remains unanswered: who will take home the 2026 Ballon d’Or?

The ceremony will recognise outstanding performances across men’s and women’s football, alongside awards for young talents, goalkeepers, coaches and clubs.

With the event approaching, attention will increasingly turn to the leading contenders and the performances that could define this year’s awards.

For Henry, the occasion offers an opportunity to take centre stage at a ceremony he once hoped to win as a player. For Scott, it is another chance to guide football’s biggest stars through a landmark night.

All eyes will now be on London as the football world prepares for the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony on October 26.