Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first English footballer to claim the prestigious individual award in 25 years.
The England captain received the honour during Monday’s ceremony at the London Palladium, beating Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal.
Kane, 33, secured the award following an outstanding 2025/26 campaign in which he scored 73 goals in 65 appearances for club and country.
His victory ends England’s long wait for a Ballon d’Or winner since former Liverpool striker Michael Owen claimed the prize in 2001.
Kane celebrates historic Ballon d’Or victory
An emotional Kane expressed gratitude after receiving the award, describing the achievement as a special moment in his career.
“Wow, I’m almost speechless,” the striker said during his acceptance speech.
“Being here in London, it is extra special; it felt like a good omen,” he added.
Kane thanked his Bayern Munich teammates, England colleagues, coaches and former club Tottenham Hotspur for their contributions to his career.
He also paid tribute to his wife, Kate, acknowledging her support throughout his footballing journey.
The striker encouraged young footballers to remain determined despite the difficulties they might encounter while pursuing their ambitions.
Kane’s victory makes him the fifth Englishman to win the award, joining Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Michael Owen.
The achievement also marks the first Ballon d’Or victory by a Bayern Munich player since Karl-Heinz Rummenigge in 1981.
Kane’s 73-goal season seals prestigious award
The England international enjoyed an exceptional campaign with Bayern Munich, scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances.
He helped the German giants retain their Bundesliga title and secure domestic silverware while reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
Kane also contributed 12 international goals, including six during England’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His performances helped the Three Lions secure third place at the tournament.
The striker also received the Gerd Müller Trophy as the best men’s goalscorer during Monday’s ceremony.
Meanwhile, Mbappe finished second in the Ballon d’Or voting, while Yamal occupied third position.
Manchester City and Barcelona midfielder Rodri finished fourth, with Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi completing the top five.
Putellas wins women’s Ballon d’Or
Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time, adding to her previous victories in 2021 and 2022.
The former Barcelona midfielder, now representing London City Lionesses, received recognition following another successful campaign.
Barcelona youngster Yamal also received the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award for the third consecutive year.
Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka won the Socrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian contributions.
Paris Saint-Germain received the Men’s Club of the Year award, while Barcelona claimed the women’s equivalent.
Kane’s triumph marks a historic achievement for English football, ending a 25-year wait for the country’s next Ballon d’Or winner.
