Harry Kane wins Ballon d'Or as Alexia Putellas claims women's award
England striker Harry Kane became the first English player in 25 years to win the Ballon d'Or, while Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas secured her third Ballon d'Or Féminin.
England captain Harry Kane was presented with the Ballon d'Or on Monday, October 26, 2026, after a season in which he scored 61 goals in 51 matches for Bayern Munich and helped the club achieve a league and cup double. Kane, the first English winner since Michael Owen in 2001, also contributed six goals for England at the World Cup, guiding the team to the semi-finals.
"Wow, wow, wow! I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special," Kane said after receiving the award. "Thank you to everyone who voted for me. 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."
Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas received the Ballon d'Or Féminin for the third time, following a treble-winning season with Barcelona and a subsequent move to the Women's Super League side London City Lionesses.
Kane's tally of 73 goals for club and country across the season placed him ahead of rivals such as Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal, whose World Cup performances were also highlighted by voters. At 33, Kane added the prestigious individual honour to his record as England's all-time leading scorer and World Cup top scorer.