The partnership will introduce FIFA’s only official annual awards ceremony, with the first edition set for 2026.
Dubai | By Haseebulah Taib| ASJFNews
FIFA and the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) have agreed to establish a new annual global football awards event, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at the World Sports Summit in Dubai, according to a press release issued by FIFA.
The agreement was announced in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
FIFA confirmed that, starting in 2026, the new event will become the organisation’s only official annual football awards ceremony, recognising outstanding performances and achievements across the global game, both on and off the pitch. The first ceremony is scheduled to take place in Dubai.
In the FIFA statement, President Gianni Infantino said the initiative aims to create a world-class platform that goes beyond a traditional awards ceremony, celebrating football’s top performers and the sport’s global impact.
The Dubai Sports Council said the agreement reflects the continued cooperation between FIFA and Dubai and underlines the city’s growing role on the international football stage. The DSC added that Dubai remains committed to supporting football development worldwide through innovation, recognition of excellence and hosting major sporting events.
FIFA noted that further details regarding award categories, nomination and voting systems, and the event calendar will be announced in due course.