Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to claim football’s most prestigious individual award after an outstanding season for club and country.
The 33-year-old England captain was crowned the world’s best men’s footballer at a ceremony in London on Monday, October 26, 2026, ending England’s long wait for another winner since former Liverpool striker Michael Owen claimed the honour in 2001.
Kane secured the award following an exceptional 2025/26 campaign in which he scored 73 goals in 65 appearances for Bayern Munich and England across all competitions. His impressive performances, consistency in front of goal and influence on his team’s success made him one of the standout players of the season.
His goalscoring exploits helped Bayern Munich secure the Bundesliga title, the German Cup and the Franz Beckenbauer Supercup. Kane also finished as the Bundesliga’s leading scorer for the third consecutive season, further underlining his dominance in German football.
In the UEFA Champions League, the England international continued his impressive form, scoring 14 goals to establish himself among the competition’s leading marksmen. His contributions across domestic and European competitions strengthened his credentials for the Ballon d’Or.
Kane finished ahead of Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe, who placed second in the voting, while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal secured third place.
The result reflects Kane’s transformation into one of the most prolific forwards in world football. Having built his reputation during his time at Tottenham Hotspur, the striker has continued to deliver exceptional performances since moving to Bayern Munich, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level.
His Ballon d’Or triumph represents a major personal achievement after years of consistent goalscoring and individual excellence. It also adds another significant milestone to a career in which he has established himself as one of England’s most accomplished modern strikers.
Kane becomes only the fifth Englishman to win the men’s Ballon d’Or, joining an illustrious list featuring Stanley Matthews, who won the inaugural award in 1956; Bobby Charlton in 1966; Kevin Keegan in 1978 and 1979; and Owen in 2001.
His victory also marks a significant moment for Bayern Munich, with Kane becoming the club’s first Ballon d’Or winner since former German international Karl-Heinz Rummenigge claimed the award in 1980 and 1981.
The achievement further highlights Bayern’s influence in European football and rewards the club’s investment in Kane, whose goalscoring ability has made him a central figure in its pursuit of domestic and continental success.
Beyond his club achievements, Kane’s leadership of the England national team has also contributed to his standing among the game’s elite players. As captain, he has remained a key figure for his country, combining his experience with a consistent ability to deliver goals.
Meanwhile, Spain international Alexia Putellas won the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time, adding another major individual honour to her career. Barcelona received the women’s club award, while Paris Saint-Germain were named men’s club of the year.
Kane’s victory marks a defining moment in his career and a historic achievement for English football. His remarkable 2025/26 season has earned him recognition among the sport’s greatest performers, while his Ballon d’Or success ends a 25-year wait for an English winner.
The award also reinforces Kane’s position among the leading forwards of his generation, rewarding a campaign defined by goals, consistency and major team honours.
