England captain Harry Kane has won the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to claim football’s most prestigious individual award, while Spain and Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas emerged winner of the women’s category.
Key Highlights
- Harry Kane wins the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or, the first Englishman to do so in 25 years.
- Alexia Putellas claims the Ballon d’Or Feminin ahead of Ewa Pajor and Khadija Shaw.
- Kylian Mbappé finishes second and Lamine Yamal third in the men’s ranking.
- Kane scored 73 goals for Bayern Munich and England in the 2025-2026 season.
- Bukayo Saka receives the Socrates Award for humanitarian work.
The winners were announced at the 2026 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony on Monday, October 26, in London, following outstanding performances by the two football stars during the 2025-2026 season.
Kane, who plays for German Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, finished ahead of France captain Kylian Mbappé, who placed second, while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal came third in the men’s ranking.
Kane’s Record-Breaking Season
The England striker enjoyed an exceptional season, scoring 73 goals across club and international competitions in 2025-2026. He also topped the Bundesliga scoring charts for the third consecutive season and finished as Europe’s leading club goalscorer for the campaign.
Kane’s achievements included helping England secure a bronze medal at the World Cup, marking the country’s best finish at the tournament since winning the title in 1966.
Speaking after receiving the award, the 33-year-old expressed gratitude to those who supported his career, including his family, teammates, coaches and former club Tottenham Hotspur.
“I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special,” Kane said, thanking voters and congratulating the other nominees.
He also acknowledged the role of Bayern Munich in his development, describing representing the German club as a privilege.
The award represents a major milestone for English football, with Kane ending a 25-year wait for an English winner of the men’s Ballon d’Or.
Putellas Wins Ballon d’Or Feminin
In the women’s category, Putellas claimed the Ballon d’Or Feminin, finishing ahead of Ewa Pajor in second place and Khadija Shaw in third.
The Barcelona midfielder’s victory further strengthened her standing among the leading figures in women’s football.
Other winners at the ceremony included Yamal, who claimed the men’s young talent award, and Vicky López, who won the equivalent women’s honour.
Spain international Unai Simón was named men’s goalkeeper of the year, while Barcelona’s Cata Coll received the women’s goalkeeper award.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente won the men’s coach of the year award, while Barcelona women’s coach Pere Romeu claimed the women’s prize.
Kane also won the men’s striker of the year award, with Mexican forward Charlyn Corral taking the women’s equivalent.
Paris Saint-Germain were named men’s club of the year, while Barcelona won the women’s club of the year award.
England and Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award in recognition of humanitarian work and social initiatives.
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Kane’s victory attracted tributes from several prominent figures, including Prince William, who described him as a “brilliant captain and remarkable player.”
England manager Thomas Tuchel also congratulated the striker, praising his performances and describing his recognition as thoroughly deserved.
Former France international Thierry Henry equally hailed Kane as a worthy winner, noting the hard work and challenges he had overcome to reach the highest level of the game.
The 2026 ceremony recognised individual excellence across men’s and women’s football, with players, coaches and clubs honoured for their contributions during the season.
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