Kane wins 2026 Ballon d’Or, ends 25-year jinx
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has been named the winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or award, following a stunning year for club and country at a ceremony in London on Monday.
Kane became the first English player to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001, and the first Bayern Munich player to win the award since 1981 when Karl-Heinz Rummenigge won it.
He enjoyed a remarkable year scoring 73 goals for England and Bayern Munich.
He became the fifth Englishman to win in total, with Stanley Matthews (1956), Bobby Charlton (1966) and Kevin Keegan (1978 and 1979) the others.
Kane was delighted to win the award while dedicating it to his family, teammates, and coaches.
He said: “Thank you very much. I know how much support you give me. We all live these emotions together. I know how much help off the pitch, it allows me to perform and do my best on the pitch.
“My brother Charlie, doesn’t seem like long ago we were kicking a ball around the garden. Taking football, just football mad. I know you say you gave me your footballing ability, so thank you for that.
“Mum and dad – what a moment. All those years, the sacrifice, the support you gave me. Taking me to training, coming to watch me play. No matter where it was, even to this day you’re there.”All those traits you have given me have allowed me to be successful and be here tonight.”
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He added: “I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special.
“Made it a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year.
“Some world-class players in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight and impressive showing determination and hard work can really achieve.”
Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas won the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’or for Best Footballer of the Year.
Putellas won the prestigious award for the third time in her career after winning it in 2021 and 2022.
Full Winners At 2026 Ballon d’Or Awards
Men’s Ballon d’Or – Harry Kane
Women’s Ballon d’Or – Alexia Putellas
Men’s Young Talent of the Year – Lamine Yamal
Women’s Young Talent of the Year – Vicky Lopez
Women’s Coach of the Year – Pere Romeu
Men’s Coach of the Year – Luis de la Fuente
Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year – Cata Coll
Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year – Unai Simon
Women’s Club of the Year – FC Barcelona Femení
Men’s Club of the Year – PSG
Sócrates Award – Bukayo Saka
Men’s Gerd Müller Trophy – Harry Kane
Women’s Gerd Müller Trophy – Charlyn Corral
