Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas win 2026 Ballon d’Or awards
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane became the first Englishman in 25 years to win the men's Ballon d’Or, while London City midfielder Alexia Putellas secured a record-tying third Ballon d’Or Féminin.
Harry Kane, the Bayern Munich forward, was named the 2026 Ballon d’Or winner, marking the first time in a quarter-century that an English player has received the award. The 33-year-old London native scored 36 Bundesliga goals last season, added 14 in the Champions League and two in domestic cups, and totaled 64 goals across all competitions for club and country. Kane has been nominated for the prize for five consecutive seasons, improving from 21st place in 2022 to 13th last year before his victory.
"It is the first time in a quarter-century that the men’s Ballon d’Or winner is an Englishman," the announcement noted.
Kane joins Michael Owen, Kevin Keegan, Bobby Charlton and Stanley Matthews as English winners of the award.
Alexia Putellas of Spain, now playing for London City, claimed her third Ballon d’Or Féminin, tying the record for most wins. The 32-year-old midfielder, who transferred from Barcelona on a free after 14 seasons, had recorded 26 goals and 15 assists in 53 matches during the voting period, helping Barcelona capture a league title, Copa de la Reina, Spanish Super Cup and Champions League. She also featured in Spain’s UEFA Nations League triumph, earning Player of the Match in the 3-0 final win over Germany.
"Putellas becomes the first woman to win the prize while playing for a Women’s Super League side," the release said.
London City, promoted to the Women’s Super League for the first time, includes notable players such as Mary Earps, Delphine Cascarino and Danielle van de Donk. The team currently sits third in the league with 16 points, three behind leaders Chelsea and Manchester City.