The 2026 Laureus Awards in Madrid proved to be a momentous occasion for two of sport's biggest stars, Rory McIlroy and Lando Norris, who were honoured for their remarkable achievements in 2025. Despite being unable to attend the glamorous black-tie event at the Palacio de Cibeles in the heart of Madrid, both athletes received prestigious gongs that highlighted their standout seasons.
Lando Norris Claims Breakthrough of the Year Award
Lando Norris was awarded the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year, a recognition of his stunning 2025 world championship victory in motorsport. In a virtual acceptance speech, Norris expressed his gratitude and reflected on the significance of the award. 'It's an honour to be recognised by many legendary athletes who have achieved so much in their careers,' he said. 'Winning the world championship is something I dreamed about since I was young, so to win my first in 2025 is pretty special.'
Norris also noted the prestige of joining past winners like Lewis Hamilton and Jude Bellingham. 'It's pretty incredible to have my name added to the list of winners of this Award,' he added. 'I hope to also inspire young drivers coming through. This Laureus is a reminder of everything that went into our win last season, and everything still to come.'
Rory McIlroy Honoured with Comeback of the Year Gong
Rory McIlroy received the Laureus World Comeback of the Year award, celebrating his dramatic 2025 season that culminated in his first Masters victory at Augusta. Fresh off winning a second straight Masters, McIlroy's comeback was recognised against a backdrop of immense sporting achievements by his peers. This marks his second career Laureus award, adding to his legacy in golf.
In his statement, McIlroy shared his thoughts on the honour. 'Winning my second Laureus Award is a huge honour, both personally and for golf,' the Northern Irishman said. 'To have the sport recognised on a global stage like this, alongside so many great athletes, means a lot.'
He also reflected on the emotional journey of completing the career Grand Slam. 'There are certain moments in your career that stay with you, and winning The Masters is one I'll carry with me forever. To then have a year like that recognised by Laureus is very special. Completing the career Grand Slam was incredibly emotional. It's something I've been chasing for a long time, and it probably means more because of everything that came before it — the near misses, the setbacks, and the questions along the way. That's a big part of the journey, and I'm grateful that this award recognises that.'
Star-Studded Event in Madrid
The awards ceremony was a star-studded affair, with tennis icon Novak Djokovic co-hosting alongside winter Olympic sensation Eileen Gu. The red carpet saw a host of sporting luminaries, including tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka, and former Wimbledon finalist Amanda Anisimova. Football was well-represented by Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, who won the inaugural Laureus Young Sportsperson of the Year award.
Yamal, who celebrated his win on his private jet with a McDonald's meal, expressed his pride on stage. 'I am very happy to be the first to receive this award for best young athlete. It is a source of pride,' he said, beaming in his denim attire. 'I am grateful that my contributions to our team in 2025 are being recognised with this Laureus. I believe that sport has the power to change the world. This statuette represents a new generation of athletes who can bring about that change. I am proud to be the first to receive this Laureus.'
Full List of 2026 Laureus Award Winners
- Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: Carlos Alcaraz
- Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year: Aryna Sabalenka
- Laureus World Team of the Year: Paris Saint-Germain
- Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year: Lando Norris
- Laureus World Comeback of the Year: Rory McIlroy
- Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability: Gabriel Araújo
- Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year: Chloe Kim
- Laureus World Young Sportsperson of the Year: Lamine Yamal
- Laureus Sporting Inspiration: Toni Kroos
- Laureus Lifetime Achievement: Nadia Comăneci
- Laureus Sport for Good: Fútbol Más
The event underscored the global impact of sport, with athletes from diverse disciplines coming together to celebrate excellence and inspiration. McIlroy and Norris, though absent, left an indelible mark on the evening, their awards serving as testaments to perseverance and breakthrough success in the competitive world of sports.
