Harry Kane beats Mbappe and Yamal to win 2026 Ballon d’Or

Harry Kane claimed the 2026 Ballon d’Or, capping a prolific campaign in which his goals played a pivotal role in Bayern Munich’s trophy-winning success.

The England captain finished ahead of France and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe, who placed second, while Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal secured third position. Manchester City midfielder Rodri finished fourth, with Lionel Messi rounding out the top five.

Kane’s triumph makes him the first Englishman to receive football’s most prestigious individual award since Michael Owen won it in 2001, ending a 25-year wait for an English winner.

“Wow, wow, wow!” Kane said after taking the stage. “I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special. It's a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year.

“Some world-class players are in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. It's an impressive showing of what determination and hard work can achieve.”

How did Kane produce a Ballon d’Or-winning season?

Kane’s performances during the 2025-26 campaign provided a compelling case for the award, with the striker combining remarkable individual statistics with team success.

The 33-year-old scored 61 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions for Bayern, playing a central role as the German giants secured both the Bundesliga title and the domestic cup.

Kane also carried his prolific form onto the international stage, scoring six times at the World Cup as England progressed to the semi-finals.

His overall tally of 73 goals for club and country underlined the scale of his contribution.

Why is the award particularly significant for Kane?

His early years at Tottenham were marked by loan spells as he attempted to establish himself in professional football. Rather than immediately emerging as a star, he gradually developed into one of the most accomplished centre-forwards of his generation.

His game has evolved beyond finishing, with his vision, passing and ability to create opportunities for teammates becoming important elements of his attacking contribution.

During his acceptance speech, Kane reflected on the difficult stages of his journey and acknowledged the people who helped him along the way, including his former coaches, Tottenham and his wife, Kate.

“It's about the journey,” Kane said. “Anything is possible. Work hard when nobody is watching.

“For any young boy or girl wanting to achieve their dreams, anything is possible. I wasn't the kid who went straight to the top. I had to experience the downs. I had to find my way to become the very best.”

The award adds another milestone to a career in which Kane has also established himself as England’s all-time leading goalscorer and their record scorer at the World Cup.

Who won the other major awards?

Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time after helping Barcelona complete a treble during the 2025-26 season, alongside success in the Spanish Super Cup.

Putellas subsequently left Barcelona in July after 14 years at the club to join Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses.

Yamal collected the men’s young-player award for the third time, while Barcelona teammate Vicky Lopez won the women’s equivalent for the second consecutive year.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente received the men’s Coach of the Year award, with Barcelona manager Pere Romeu recognised in the women’s category.

Spain and Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon won the men’s goalkeeper award, while Barcelona and Spain shot-stopper Cata Coll took the women’s honour.

Paris Saint-Germain were named men’s Club of the Year, with Barcelona winning the corresponding women’s award. Kane also received the men’s striker prize, while Charlyn Corral was recognised as the leading women’s striker.

Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award for his humanitarian contributions.