Harry Kane claimed the 2026 men's Ballon d'Or at London's Palladium Theatre on Monday night, becoming the first English recipient in 25 years. His 73 goals in 65 appearances for Bayern Munich and England last season persuaded the journalists' jury to place him ahead of Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.
The award ended several lengthy waits. Michael Owen had been England's most recent winner, in 2001, while Matthias Sammer's victory in 1996 was the last by a player representing a German club. Bayern's previous recipient was Karl-Heinz Rummenigge in 1981. Kane also joined Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan among England's winners.
The ceremony took place just ten kilometres from Brisbane Road, where Kane scored his first professional goal in England's third tier. Reflecting on an early career marked by loan moves rather than immediate success, he said he hoped his journey would inspire young players to pursue their ambitions.
Kane thanked his family and emphasised the contribution of team-mates whose passing and movement enabled him to score. He also acknowledged the support of Bayern coach Vincent Kompany and England manager Thomas Tuchel, who previously coached him at Bayern.
In the women's category, Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas secured her third Ballon d'Or, having previously won in 2021 and 2022. She finished ahead of compatriot Claudia Pina and England's Alessia Russo. Having joined Barcelona in 2012, Putellas expressed gratitude for her 14 seasons at the club and urged young players to play with love and passion.
