FIFA made a historic change to its awards system official. The organization announced the creation of an annual gala in association with the Dubai Sports Council that will debut in 2026. This gala will be the only official recognition event for players, teams, and achievements in both men's and women's soccer.
The announcement was made during the World Sports Summit held in Dubai, with the presence of the president of the international body, Gianni Infantino, and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the highest authority of the Sports Council. There, both parties signed a memorandum of understanding that sealed the birth of the new event, which will have its permanent venue in the Emirati city.
"Starting in 2026, it will be FIFA's only official annual awards ceremony and it will bring together the most prominent figures in the beautiful game to honor the best players, teams, and achievements from the previous season of men's and women's soccer", stated the press release distributed to the media. With this decision, the The Best awards will cease to exist, and they will be replaced by this awards ceremony that doesn't yet have an official name.
