Bayern Munich and England striker [Harry Kane](/harry-kane-bayern-munich-and-england-striker-wins-ballon-d-or-after-record--7599) was officially crowned the men's Ballon d'Or winner on Monday, October 26, 2026, marking football's pinnacle individual achievement after a record-breaking domestic double campaign. Spain's Alexia Putellas made history of her own on the same evening, capturing the prestigious Ballon d'Or Féminin for the third time during the ceremony staged at the London Palladium Theatre in London, England.
Kane's triumph makes him the first Englishman to win the Ballon d'Or in 25 years, ending an English drought that had persisted since Michael Owen lifted the trophy in 2001. The award serves as formal validation of Kane's transformative career phase since departing Tottenham Hotspur for Bayern Munich in 2023, where he ended his long search for top-flight team silverware.
According to reporting by The Hindu, Kane reflected on the milestone immediately after taking the stage in his home city. "Wow, wow, wow!" Kane remarked. "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 in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight and impressive showing determination and hard work can really achieve."
Record-Breaking Campaign Powers Kane's Victory
The 2025–26 season established Kane as the undisputed frontrunner for the award. The England captain delivered the most prolific campaign of his professional career, netting 61 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions for Bayern Munich. His offensive output propelled the Bavarian giants to a domestic league and cup double, finishing the campaign as the leading club goalscorer across European football.
His impact carried directly into the international arena. Leading England as captain, Kane scored six goals during the major tournament cycle, guiding the national squad to the semi-final stage while combining clinical box presence with seasoned tactical playmaking.
| Winner / Category | Team / Nation | Key Milestone / Statistic | Historical Precedent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Kane (Men's Ballon d'Or) | Bayern Munich / England | 61 goals in 51 matches; domestic double | First English winner in 25 years (Michael Owen, 2001) |
| Alexia Putellas (Ballon d'Or Féminin) | FC Barcelona / Spain | Midfield orchestrator, international dominance | Third career Ballon d'Or Féminin victory |
Alexia Putellas Extends Era of Dominance
In the women's category, Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas continued her historic dominance of the sport by picking up her third career Ballon d'Or Féminin. Putellas, who previously won consecutive awards in 2021 and 2022, remains the benchmark for creative midfield play in European and international football, orchestrating success for both FC Barcelona and the Spain women's national team.
The London ceremony highlighted an evolving landscape in international individual accolades, reaffirming the competitive dominance of established leaders while concluding a quarter-century wait for English men's football.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Men's Ballon d'Or in 2026?
Harry Kane won the 2026 Men's Ballon d'Or after scoring 61 goals in 51 matches for Bayern Munich and guiding England to a major international semi-final.
When and where was the Ballon d'Or announced?
The ceremony took place on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the London Palladium Theatre in London, England.
Who was the last Englishman to win the award before Harry Kane?
Michael Owen [was the last](/who-was-the-last-english-player-to-win-the-ballon-d-or-and-when-was-it-3842) English footballer to win the Ballon d'Or, receiving the accolade 25 years earlier in 2001.
Who won the Women's Ballon d'Or award?
Spain and Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas won the Ballon d'Or Féminin, securing the award for the third time in her career.
