Harry Kane Wins 2026 Ballon d’Or, Ends 25-Year Wait for England
Harry Kane has become the first English footballer in 25 years to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or after claiming the 2026 men’s award at a ceremony in London on Monday.
The Bayern Munich striker secured the honour after an outstanding season in which he scored 73 goals for club and country, finishing ahead of Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal.
Kane’s victory marks England’s first Ballon d’Or triumph since former Liverpool striker Michael Owen won the award in 2001. He also joins an elite group of English winners that includes Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan.
Speaking after receiving the award, the England captain expressed gratitude to France Football, the organisers of the ceremony, and everyone who voted for him.
“Wow, I’m almost speechless. First of all, thanks again to France Football and the Ballon d’Or for this amazing event,” Kane said.
He added that winning the award in London made the occasion particularly special, describing the location as a good omen.
Kane also acknowledged the contributions of the England national team, Bayern Munich and his former club, Tottenham Hotspur, to his career.
Reflecting on his journey to football’s highest individual honour, the striker encouraged young players to remain determined despite setbacks and challenges.
“For any young boy or girl who wants to achieve their dream, anything is possible,” he said.
Kane explained that his rise to the top had not been straightforward, noting that he had endured several loan spells before establishing himself among the world’s leading footballers.
“I hope my journey can inspire others. I didn’t go straight to the top; I had to experience several loan moves and fight my way to where I am now,” he added.
The ceremony was preceded by confusion after the Ballon d’Or website reportedly published three separate articles naming Kane, Yamal and Mbappe as winners of the men’s award.
The event also began 45 minutes behind schedule, with organisers attributing the delay to traffic congestion in London.
Kane Beats Mbappe, Yamal to Top Award
Kane finished first in the final voting, with Mbappe taking second place and Yamal finishing third.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri placed fourth, while Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi finished fifth.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia came sixth, followed by teammate Ousmane Dembele in seventh place.
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland finished eighth, while Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise and PSG’s Fabian Ruiz completed the top 10.
Other Winners at the Ceremony
In the women’s category, Alexia Putellas won the Ballon d’Or, representing London City Lionesses and Barcelona, alongside Spain.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente received the Men’s Coach of the Year award, while Barcelona’s Pere Romeu won the Women’s Coach of the Year honour.
Yamal was named Men’s Young Talent of the Year, while his Barcelona teammate Vicky Lopez claimed the women’s award.
Kane also won the Men’s Striker of the Year prize, while Mexico’s Charlyn Corral received the Women’s Striker of the Year award.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon won the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, while Barcelona’s Cata Coll claimed the women’s honour.
Paris Saint-Germain was named Men’s Club of the Year, while Barcelona won the Women’s Club of the Year award.
Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian work.
