England captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has won the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or after an outstanding season in which he delivered goals consistently and helped his club win three major trophies. Spain’s Alexia Putellas, meanwhile, took home the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time in her career.
Kane’s victory makes him the first English player to win the Men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen claimed the award in 2001. He finished ahead of strong contenders, including Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, to earn one of football’s biggest individual honours.
The ceremony was held at London’s Palladium, marking 70 years since Stanley Matthews became the first player to receive the prestigious award.
Harry Kane’s Record-Breaking Season With Bayern Munich
Kane enjoyed a remarkable campaign for Bayern Munich, scoring 73 goals and providing eight assists across the season. His 81 goal contributions played a major role in Bayern’s success as they won the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup.
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The England captain was most prolific in the Bundesliga, scoring 36 goals in 31 games to help Bayern win the 2025-26 league title. His consistent goalscoring form made him one of the best players in European football.
Kane also delivered in the UEFA Champions League, scoring 14 goals in 13 matches. Although Bayern were knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain, the striker continued to make his presence felt throughout the competition.
He scored in both legs of Bayern’s quarter-final tie against Real Madrid and found the net in both semi-final matches against PSG.
Kane Shines For England At The 2026 World Cup
Kane’s success was not limited to club football. He also made an important contribution to England’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The England captain scored six goals and provided one assist as the Three Lions finished third in the tournament. His international performances added to an already impressive season and strengthened his case for the Ballon d’Or.
Kane had been regarded as one of the world’s top strikers for years but had never won the award. The 2026 honour is a big moment in his career and adds another feather to his growing cap of achievements.
Alexia Putellas Wins Women’s Ballon d’Or For Third Time
Spain international and Barcelona star Alexia Putellas won the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time, having previously lifted the trophy in 2021 and 2022.
Her latest victory places her alongside former Barcelona teammate Aitana Bonmatí, who has also won the award three times.
Putellas once again enjoyed a strong season with Barcelona, helping the Spanish club maintain its place among the leading sides in women’s football. Her performances throughout the campaign earned her another opportunity to be recognised among the best players in the women’s game.
The latest award adds to Putellas’ impressive career and further highlights her impact on women’s football.
London Hosts The 2026 Ballon d’Or Ceremony
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony took place at London’s Palladium, with the event marking the 70th anniversary of Stanley Matthews becoming the first winner of the award in 1956.