FIFA Announces Dubai as Host City for Best Awards Starting in 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced a new partnership designating Dubai as the host city for the FIFA Best Awards starting in 2026, which underscores the city's emergence as a prominent global sports destination.

The announcement was made during the opening of the Global Sports Summit, sponsored by Dubai, which gathered over 1,500 leaders, experts, and athletes from around the world in Jumeirah under the theme, "Uniting the World Through Sport."

The President of the Dubai Sports Council emphasized that the summit serves as a vibrant platform for discussing the future of sports globally, honoring stars, supporting emerging talents across various sports, and highlighting the role of sports in uniting communities and inspiring future generations.

Attendees include prominent figures from major sports organizations and clubs, alongside legends such as Ronaldo Nazário, Novak Djokovic, Paula Badosa, and Oleksandr Usyk.

On the first day, speeches were delivered by Khalfan Jumaa Belhoul, Vice President of the Dubai Sports Council, and Gianni Infantino, titled "The Next Ninety Minutes." Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa also spoke about the role of sports in Bahrain.

The second day will feature various sessions covering mixed martial arts, football, sports management, sports investments, and the relationship between athletes and fashion, fostering an atmosphere of discussion and interactive workshops.

The summit will conclude with a special session featuring World Cup stars and coaches, including Ronaldo, Cafu, Puyol, Iniesta, Deschamps, and Cannavaro, moderated by Italian football legend Alessandro Del Piero.