Harry Kane has become the first English player in 25 years to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or after being crowned the 2026 winner at Monday’s ceremony in London.
The Bayern Munich striker claimed the award after scoring 73 goals for club and country last season, finishing ahead of Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal.
Kane’s victory makes him the first Englishman to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001.
He joins a select group of English Ballon d’Or winners that includes Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan.
An emotional Kane thanked France Football, organisers of the award, as well as those who voted for him.
“Wow, I’m almost speechless. First of all, thanks again to France Football and the Ballon d’Or for this amazing event.
“Being in London makes it extra special; it felt like a good omen,” he said.
Kane also expressed gratitude to England, Bayern Munich and former club Tottenham Hotspur for their roles in his career.
Reflecting on his rise to the top of the game, the England captain said young footballers could achieve their ambitions through perseverance despite setbacks.
“For any young boy or girl who wants to achieve their dream, anything is possible,” Kane said.
He said his career had not followed a straightforward path, noting that he endured several loan spells before establishing himself at the highest level.
“I hope my journey can inspire others. I didn’t go straight to the top; I had to experience several loan moves and fight my way to where I am now,” he said.
The ceremony was preceded by confusion after the Ballon d’Or website published three separate articles appearing to name Kane, Yamal and Mbappe as winners of the men’s award.
The ceremony also began 45 minutes late, with organisers attributing the delay to traffic congestion in London.
In the final men’s rankings, Kane finished first, followed by Mbappe and Yamal.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri placed fourth, while Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi finished fifth.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia came sixth, ahead of teammate Ousmane Dembele in seventh.
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland finished eighth, while Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise and PSG midfielder Fabian Ruiz completed the top 10.
In the women’s category, Alexia Putellas won the Ballon d’Or, representing London City Lionesses and Barcelona, alongside Spain.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente won the Men’s Coach of the Year award, while Barcelona’s Pere Romeu was named Women’s Coach of the Year.
Yamal won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award, while his Barcelona teammate Vicky Lopez claimed the women’s prize.
Kane also won the Men’s Striker of the Year award, while Mexico’s Charlyn Corral received the Women’s Striker of the Year honour.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon won the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, while Barcelona’s Cata Coll won the women’s category.
Paris Saint-Germain was named Men’s Club of the Year, while Barcelona received the Women’s Club of the Year award.
Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian work.
