Former Ivory Coast international Didier Drogba received the Citizen Player Award at the 2026 UNFP Awards ceremony in Paris on Monday, recognizing his humanitarian efforts through the Didier Drogba Foundation.
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, the former Chelsea FC striker has continued to expand his influence beyond football through charitable and social initiatives across Africa.
Founded in 2007, the Didier Drogba Foundation focuses on education, healthcare, and support for vulnerable communities. Over the years, the organization has funded hospitals, school projects, and youth empowerment programs in several African countries.
The Citizen Player Award was presented during the annual UNFP Awards 2026, organized by France’s National Union of Professional Footballers. The distinction recognizes football personalities who have made significant contributions to society through humanitarian or community-based initiatives.
Drogba, who played a key role in Ivory Coast’s rise on the international football stage, has increasingly become a prominent advocate for social development and philanthropy since retiring from professional football.
The ceremony gathered leading figures from French and international football in Paris, celebrating achievements both on and off the pitch.
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