Late South African midfielder Jayden Adams was reportedly honoured during the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony held in London on Monday night, 26 October, as the football world paid tribute to prominent figures who died this year.

Adams, who represented Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team, was included in a special memorial segment alongside football greats Kevin Keegan and Franco Baresi.

The reported tribute recognised Adams’ contribution to South African football and his involvement with Bafana Bafana on the international stage.

The 25-year-old midfielder reportedly died in July 2026, only weeks after representing South Africa at the FIFA World Cup. During the tournament, he featured in all three of Bafana Bafana’s group-stage matches, making an important contribution to the team’s campaign.

His inclusion in the ceremony’s remembrance segment highlighted the impact of his career despite his relatively young age and the loss felt by supporters following his death.

The Ballon d’Or ceremony is one of football’s most prominent annual events, bringing together leading players, coaches and other influential figures from across the sport.

Remembering Adams alongside internationally recognised football personalities provided an opportunity to acknowledge his place in the game and his service to South Africa.

His reported recognition at the ceremony is likely to resonate with Bafana Bafana supporters and the wider South African football community, who continue to remember his contribution to the national team.

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