Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to receive football’s most prestigious individual award.
Kane was presented with the prize at a ceremony in London on Monday evening, following an outstanding season in which he scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern Munich. Including his international matches, he scored 73 goals for club and country over the past season.
The England captain played a key role in Bayern’s domestic success, further strengthening his case for the award. His achievement marks a significant milestone for English football, with Michael Owen having been the last Englishman to win the men’s Ballon d’Or, in 2001.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe finished second in the voting, while Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal came third. Manchester City midfielder Rodri and Lionel Messi completed the top five.
Speaking after receiving the award, Kane thanked those who had supported him throughout his career, including his wife, Kate. He acknowledged the challenges along the way and described the achievement as a significant moment in his career.
In the women’s category, Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas won the Ballon d’Or for the third time, having previously claimed the award in 2021 and 2022.
Yamal won the men’s Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, while Barcelona’s Vicky Lopez received the women’s award for the best young player.
The 2026 ceremony marked the 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or awards, which were established by French magazine France Football in 1956 and are widely regarded as among the highest individual honours in the sport.
