Trophées UNFP 2026: How to Watch the Ligue 1 Awards Ceremony Live

For the stars of French football, there is no higher individual honor than the UNFP Trophies. It is the “Oscars” of the hexagonal game, a night where the grit of the pitch is replaced by the glamour of the red carpet and the season’s most dominant performers are officially etched into the history books.

As the 2025-2026 campaign draws to a close, the footballing world turns its attention to Paris for the 34th edition of the ceremony. Whether you are tracking the rise of a young prodigy or waiting to see if a seasoned veteran claims the top prize, knowing where and when to tune in is essential.

Below is everything you need to know about the timing, the broadcast platform, and the high-stakes nominations for the 2026 Trophées UNFP.

Broadcast Details: Where and When to Watch

In a move designed to maximize accessibility for fans across France and globally, the UNFP has pivoted its broadcasting strategy for this edition. The ceremony will not be locked behind a traditional cable subscription.

The Platform: The entire event will be broadcast free-to-air on the Ligue 1+ platform. This ensures that supporters of the domestic game can witness the celebrations without a paywall.

The Date: Monday, May 11, 2026. The event was originally scheduled for Sunday, May 10, but was shifted by 24 hours to avoid a scheduling conflict with the Championship’s multiplex matches.

The Schedule:

• Red Carpet Arrivals: 7:45 PM CEST (17:45 UTC). This segment provides a first look at the fashion and the atmosphere as players and coaches arrive.
• Formal Award Presentations: 8:45 PM CEST (18:45 UTC). This is when the trophies are handed out and the winners are announced.

The ceremony is hosted at the historic Palais Brongniart, located in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris. The venue, once the heart of the French stock exchange, provides a grand, architectural backdrop that mirrors the prestige of the awards themselves.

The Contenders: Who is in the Running?

The 2025-2026 season has been one of transition and tactical evolution in Ligue 1. The nominees reflect a league that is increasingly competitive, with a blend of established superstars and explosive new talent.

Best Ligue 1 Player

The most coveted prize of the night is the Best Player award. Last year, Ousmane Dembélé took home the trophy, but the 2026 race is wide open. The nominees include:

• Mason Greenwood (Marseille): A clinical presence who has revitalized the attack at the Vélodrome.
• Ousmane Dembélé (PSG): Seeking to defend his title with his trademark unpredictability.
• Nuno Mendes (PSG): A powerhouse on the flank who has redefined the modern full-back role in France.
• Florian Thauvin (Lens): A veteran whose intelligence and leadership have kept Lens in the conversation.
• Vitinha (PSG): The midfield engine who dictates the tempo for the capital club.

Best Ligue 1 Coach

The tactical battle for the best manager’s trophy highlights the diverse philosophies currently shaping the league. The nominees are:

• Luis Enrique (Paris Saint-Germain): The architect of PSG’s current structural identity.
• Fabio Fonseca (Lyon): Credited with steering Lyon back toward stability and competitiveness.
• Pierre Sage (Lens): A rising managerial star who has maximized the potential of his squad.
• Genesio (Lille OSC): Known for his attacking fluidity and ability to develop young talent.
• Pantaloni (Lorient): Recognized for overachieving with limited resources.

The Next Generation: Best Young Prospect

Ligue 1 remains the premier breeding ground for global talent. For the scouts and fans, the “Best Young Prospect” category is often the most telling indicator of future Ballon d’Or contenders. This year’s shortlist features:

• Warren Zaïre-Emery (PSG): A phenomenon who plays with the composure of a ten-year veteran.
• João Neves (PSG): The technical maestro who has quickly become indispensable in midfield.
• Valentín Barco (Strasbourg): An exciting creative force who has adapted rapidly to the French game.
• Désiré Doué (PSG): A versatile attacker with a ceiling that seems limitless.
• Bouaddi (LOSC): Lille’s latest midfield gem who has broken into the first team with ease.

The Guardians: Best Goalkeeper

The battle between the sticks is fierce this year, with several keepers putting up historic numbers in clean sheets and saves. The nominees include Samba (Stade Rennais), Penders (Strasbourg), Risser (Lens), Koffi (Angers), and Greif (OL).

Expanding the Horizon: French Talent Abroad

One of the most interesting aspects of the UNFP awards is the recognition of French players who have taken their talents to other European leagues. This category serves as a barometer for the “French Export” success story.

The 2026 nominees for Best French Player Playing Abroad include some of the most high-profile names in world football:

• Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid): The focal point of the global game, now adapting to life in Spain.
• William Saliba (Arsenal): A defensive rock in the Premier League who remains a cornerstone of the national team.
• Michael Olise (Bayern Munich): A creative spark now lighting up the Bundesliga.
• Hugo Ekitike (linked with Liverpool): A striker whose clinical nature has drawn attention from the English giants.
• Rayan Cherki (linked with Manchester City): A technician whose flair has long been coveted by Pep Guardiola’s side.

Beyond Ligue 1: Ligue 2 and Arkema Première Ligue

While the top flight grabs the headlines, the UNFP Trophies are a comprehensive celebration of the French football pyramid. The ceremony also honors the standout performers from Ligue 2 BKT and the Arkema Première Ligue (the top division for women’s football).

The inclusion of the women’s game is a critical component of the evening, recognizing the rapid growth and professionalization of the Arkema Première Ligue. These awards highlight the athletes who are driving the game forward in France, ensuring that excellence is rewarded regardless of the division.

Why These Awards Matter

For the casual observer, these may seem like mere vanity prizes. However, in the ecosystem of French football, the UNFP awards carry significant weight. Unlike awards decided by a modest committee of journalists, these trophies are voted on by the players themselves.

There is a unique prestige in being named “the best” by the people who actually have to mark you for 90 minutes every weekend. When a player like Warren Zaïre-Emery or Mason Greenwood is recognized by their peers, it is a validation of their technical ability and their mental toughness.

the ceremony serves as a strategic networking event. With agents, club presidents, and national team scouts in attendance at the Palais Brongniart, the conversations held in the wings are often as impactful as the trophies handed out on stage.

Fan Engagement: Voting and Predictions

The UNFP has integrated digital interaction into the ceremony to bring fans closer to the action. While the primary awards are decided by professionals, the Trophy for the Most Beautiful Goal in both Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 is open to public voting.

Fans can visit the official ceremony website to cast their votes and submit their predictions for the winners. This interactive element transforms the event from a passive viewing experience into an active celebration of the season’s most spectacular moments.

As we approach Monday evening, the tension in the French camps is palpable. Will PSG sweep the major categories, or will the decentralized talent of clubs like Marseille and Lens disrupt the hierarchy? The answers will be revealed under the glittering lights of Paris.

Next Checkpoint: The red carpet begins this Monday at 7:45 PM CEST. Stay tuned to Archysport for live updates and a full breakdown of the winners immediately following the ceremony.

Who do you think deserves the Best Player award this year? Let us know in the comments or share this guide with your fellow football fans.