Harry Kane Wins 2026 Ballon d’Or, Becomes First English Winner in 25 Years
Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first English footballer in 25 years to receive the prestigious individual award.
The Bayern Munich striker was honoured at a ceremony in London after an outstanding 2025/26 season, during which he reportedly scored 73 goals for club and country. His achievement places him among the select group of English players to have won football’s most celebrated individual prize.
Kane follows in the footsteps of Michael Owen, who won the award in 2001, as well as English football legends Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan.
The England captain finished ahead of Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid and Lamine Yamal of Barcelona, who placed second and third respectively.
Kane Describes Ballon d’Or Win as a Dream Come True
Speaking after receiving the award, Kane expressed his excitement and described the achievement as beyond his wildest dreams.
The striker thanked France Football, the organisers of the Ballon d’Or, as well as his teammates at Bayern Munich and the England national team. He also acknowledged the support he received throughout his career.
Kane said his journey had not been straightforward, recalling the loan spells and challenges he faced before establishing himself among the world’s leading footballers.
He added that he hoped his career would inspire young boys and girls to pursue their ambitions, stressing that success remains possible even when the path to the top is difficult.
The forward also credited his teammates for creating opportunities, drawing defenders away and helping him score goals. He emphasised that, despite being an individual award, his success would not have been possible without their contributions.
Michael Owen Was England’s Last Winner in 2001
Before Kane’s triumph, Michael Owen was the last Englishman to win the men’s Ballon d’Or, having received the honour in 2001.
Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher welcomed Kane’s achievement, saying England had waited a long time for another winner.
Carragher praised Kane’s career and described him as one of the outstanding players of his generation. He also suggested that Jude Bellingham could become a future Ballon d’Or winner.
According to Carragher, Kane’s move from Tottenham Hotspur to Bayern Munich was an important step in his pursuit of major honours. He argued that the switch increased the striker’s opportunities to compete for the Champions League and receive recognition at the highest level.
Tuchel and Prince William Congratulate Kane
England head coach Thomas Tuchel congratulated Kane on winning the award, describing the recognition as deserved.
Tuchel praised the striker’s performances and leadership, noting that becoming the first English winner in 25 years made the achievement particularly special.
Also Read: Burna Boy and Davido Shake Hands at Zlatan’s Party
Prince William, who serves as patron of the Football Association, also congratulated the England captain. He praised Kane’s contribution to football and the memorable moments he has given supporters around the world.
In recognition of the victory, London’s Wembley Stadium arch and Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena were illuminated in Kane’s honour.
2026 Ballon d’Or Men’s Rankings
The top three players in the men’s category were:
- Harry Kane – Bayern Munich and England
- Kylian Mbappe – Real Madrid and France
- Lamine Yamal – Barcelona and Spain
Other notable positions included Rodri in fourth place, Lionel Messi in fifth and Erling Haaland in eighth. England midfielder Jude Bellingham finished 11th, while Declan Rice placed 15th.
Other Winners at the 2026 Ballon d’Or Ceremony
The ceremony also recognised outstanding performances across men’s and women’s football.
Alexia Putellas won the Women’s Ballon d’Or, while Lamine Yamal received the men’s Young Talent of the Year award. Vicky Lopez won the women’s young talent prize.
Other winners included Luis de la Fuente as Men’s Coach of the Year, Pere Romeu as Women’s Coach of the Year and Unai Simon as Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year.
Paris Saint-Germain won Men’s Club of the Year, while Barcelona claimed the women’s club award. Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award for humanitarian work.
