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England captain Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or after an outstanding season with Bayern Munich and the national team.
The 33-year-old striker received football’s prestigious individual award at a ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday, 26 October, becoming the first Englishman to win the trophy since Michael Owen in 2001.
Kane enjoyed a remarkable 2025/26 campaign, scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern Munich as the German club secured the Bundesliga title and the German Cup. His performances also earned him recognition as one of the most productive forwards in European football.
Including international matches, Kane scored 73 goals for club and country during the season, underlining his importance to both Bayern Munich and England.
He also played a key role in England’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring six goals as the Three Lions reached the semi-finals.
Kane’s achievement marks a significant moment in his career. Despite years of consistent performances and impressive goal-scoring records, he had never previously finished higher than 10th in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
The England captain finished ahead of Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, who came second, and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, who placed third. Manchester City midfielder Rodri finished fourth, while Lionel Messi completed the top five.
Kane’s victory also brought an end to a 25-year wait for England to produce another winner of the men’s award. Previous English winners include Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Owen.
In addition to the Ballon d’Or, Kane received the Gerd Müller Trophy for the best men’s striker, recognising his impressive goal-scoring record during the season.
The women’s Ballon d’Or was won by Spain international Alexia Putellas, who secured the honour for the third time in her career.
Kane’s success represents a major personal achievement and adds another milestone to a career defined by goals, consistency and leadership at club and international level.
