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England captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has been crowned the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or winner, ending a 25-year wait for an Englishman to claim football’s prestigious individual award. The 33-year-old received the honour at a ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26.
Kane emerged ahead of strong contenders Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal following an outstanding 2025/2026 campaign. His performances for Bayern Munich and the England national team played a major role in securing the recognition.
The prolific forward scored 73 goals across 65 appearances for club and country during the season. At Bayern, he helped the German side win the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup, while also finishing among the leading scorers in European football.
The victory makes Kane the first English player to win the men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen achieved the feat in 2001. He becomes the fifth Englishman to receive the award, joining previous winners Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Owen.
Meanwhile, Spain’s Alexia Putellas claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time, while other honours recognised outstanding performances by players, coaches and clubs. Kane’s triumph marks a significant milestone in his career and brings renewed attention to his remarkable rise to football’s highest individual honour.
