England captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has won the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or, becoming the first English player in 25 years to receive football’s prestigious individual award.
Kane was announced as the winner at the ceremony held in London on October 26, 2026, following an impressive season in which his goalscoring performances helped him stand out among the world’s leading footballers.
Spain and Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas won the Women’s Ballon d’Or, adding another major achievement to her career.
Kane finished ahead of France’s Kylian Mbappé, who came second, while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal finished third. Rodri and Lionel Messi completed the top five in the men’s rankings.
The England captain scored 73 goals across club and international competitions during the 2025–26 season, underlining his importance to both Bayern Munich and the national team.
He also finished as Europe’s leading club goalscorer for the season and topped the Bundesliga scoring charts for the third consecutive campaign.
At international level, Kane helped England secure its best FIFA World Cup finish since lifting the trophy in 1966.
England won the third-place play-off to claim the bronze medal, with Kane finishing among the tournament’s leading scorers.
Speaking after receiving the award, Kane thanked his family, teammates, coaches and supporters for helping him reach the highest level of the game.
He said his career had involved numerous challenges, particularly in its early stages, when he had to remain patient, work hard and believe in his abilities.
Kane added that winning the Ballon d’Or would not end his ambition to improve, stressing that continued progress remained important regardless of the achievements he had already recorded.
He also expressed gratitude to Tottenham Hotspur, where he developed into an established striker, and Bayern Munich, where he said he had continued to grow as a player and leader.
In the women’s competition, Putellas claimed the top honour ahead of Ewa Pajor, who finished second, and Khadija Shaw, who came third.
The awards also recognised emerging talent, goalkeeping excellence, coaching achievements and the contributions of leading clubs.
Spain’s Yamal won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award, while compatriot Vicky López received the women’s equivalent.
Paris Saint-Germain was named Men’s Club of the Year, while Barcelona won the Women’s Club of the Year award.
Spain international Unai Simón received the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, with Barcelona’s Cata Coll winning the women’s category.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was named Men’s Coach of the Year, while Barcelona women’s coach Pere Romeu received the corresponding women’s award.
Kane also won the Men’s Striker of the Year award, while Mexico’s Charlyn Corral claimed the women’s honour.
Meanwhile, England and Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award for humanitarian work and social initiatives.
Kane’s victory highlights a career built on persistence, self-belief and consistent performance.
His journey from a developing young player to one of football’s most celebrated figures offers an example to aspiring footballers of the importance of patience, discipline and continuous improvement.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony brought together leading players, coaches and clubs to recognise achievements across men’s and women’s football, while celebrating the talent and dedication that continue to shape the global game.