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FIFA Retires ‘The Best,’ Launches Dubai-Based Annual Awards From 2026

A new partnership with the Dubai Sports Council establishes a single official gala from 2026, with categories and voting details still pending.

Overview

  • FIFA confirmed it will discontinue The Best awards and replace them with a new global ceremony hosted in Dubai.
  • The Dubai event will be the organization’s only official annual awards starting in 2026.
  • The change stems from a formal agreement with the Dubai Sports Council, which FIFA president Gianni Infantino described as an innovative way to honor football.
  • Details on award categories, nomination and selection processes, and the ceremony date will be announced at a later time.
  • The decision follows a brief 42‑minute Doha edition with notable absences, where Aitana Bonmatí and Ousmane Dembélé were named the 2025 top players.