England captain Harry Kane has been crowned the winner of the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or, while Spain’s Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s prize as football’s leading individual honours were presented at a ceremony in London on Monday.
Kane, who plays for German champions Bayern Munich, emerged as the standout performer in the men’s category following an impressive year for club and country. His triumph marks a major milestone in a career defined by prolific goalscoring and consistent performances at the highest level.
The Ballon d’Or remains one of football’s most coveted individual honours, celebrating players whose performances distinguish them among the sport’s elite.
The 2026 ceremony, held at the London Palladium in England, was the 70th edition of the prestigious awards organised by France Football to recognise outstanding performances in men’s and women’s football.
Kane faced competition from several leading players, including Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembélé, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The England international has established himself as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards, combining his goalscoring ability with intelligent link-up play and creativity in the attacking third.
His latest achievement adds to a distinguished career in which he has become England’s all-time leading goalscorer and one of the most recognisable strikers in world football.
In the women’s category, Putellas secured the Ballon d’Or, adding another major individual honour to her decorated career.
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal was named Men’s Young Talent of the Year, while Vicky Lopez won the corresponding award in the women’s category.
Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente received the Men’s Coach of the Year award, while Barcelona women’s coach Pere Romeu won the women’s prize.
Spain international goalkeeper Unai Simon was named Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year, with Barcelona’s Cata Coll claiming the women’s award.
FC Barcelona Femení was also recognised as Women’s Club of the Year for its performances in the women’s game.
