Harry Kane wins the 2026 Ballon d’Or in London
Harry Kane won the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or at the London Palladium, returning the honor to England twenty-five years after Michael Owen’s victory in 2001. The Bayern Munich striker received the trophy from Ronaldo at the end of October during a ceremony organized in London to celebrate the award’s seventieth anniversary. Kane finished a season with 73 goals in 65 matches, helping his club secure domestic trophies. I’m almost speechless. Being here in London makes it even more special.
said the forward, who was born in 1993 and succeeded Ousmane Dembélé. I can imagine how difficult it was to vote for the judges. I thank those who voted for me and my Bayern teammates: you pushed me and made me better. A hug to Kompany, happy to bring this trophy back to Bayern. It’s also an honor to be England captain; I’m very proud, and I also thank Tuchel and his staff. I also want to thank Tottenham; you’re not here without Tottenham.
It’s incredible to win it, even more special to receive this award in London,
he added. It was the best season of my life, both personally and as a team.
The Final Podium and Rankings at the London Palladium
Kylian Mbappé finished second in the voting, while Lamine Yamal took third place. Rodri placed fourth ahead of Lionel Messi in fifth. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia took sixth, followed by Ousmane Dembélé, Erling Haaland, Michael Olise, and Fabián Ruiz inside the top ten. Lautaro Martinez, the sole Serie A representative, finished 22nd. Mbappé had stated: I always think I’m the best, but everyone has their own opinion.
Since its inception, 49 footballers have won the Ballon d’Or.
How the 2026 Ceremony Honored Past Milestones
The 70th edition of the award marked a departure from its traditional home in Paris to honor Stanley Matthews, the first recipient of the prize in 1956. Thierry Henry and Kate Scott hosted the gala in front of international football figures. Paris Saint-Germain won the men’s club of the year award following two Champions League titles, while Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or, matching Aitana Bonmatí with three career wins after leading Barcelona through a trophy-laden campaign prior to joining the London City Lionesses.
Additional Awards Presented During the Gala
* Lamine Yamal received the award for male young talent of the year, stating: It is an honor to be here and receive this award,
and adding: I think he should have won it
referring to Pau Cubarsí.
* Luis de la Fuente won the men’s coach of the year award for guiding Spain, stating: This is not an individual award, but for an entire team.
* Unai Simon collected the award for best male goalkeeper, declaring: I have to thank my parents and my brother, who instilled principles and values in me.
* Harry Kane also picked up the Gerd Müller Trophy as the top male striker.
* Bukayo Saka was honored with the Socrates Award for social commitment.
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