FIFA and the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) have signed a partnership agreement to launch a new annual football awards event, starting from 2026.
The agreement was announced at the World Sports Summit in Dubai, where a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Dubai Sports Council Chairman Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The announcement was made in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.
From 2026 onwards, the event will become FIFA’s only official global annual awards ceremony. It will bring together leading figures from world football and will recognise the best players, teams and achievements from the previous year, both on and off the pitch.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the new awards will go beyond a traditional ceremony, describing them as a modern and innovative way to celebrate football worldwide.
Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed highlighted Dubai’s strong relationship with FIFA and said the agreement strengthens the city’s position as a major hub for global football. He added that Dubai remains committed to supporting the development of football and sport at an international level.
Further details, including award categories, voting procedures and event dates, will be announced at a later stage.
