Harry Kane wins Ballon d'Or after 25 years: How 81 goal contributions sealed it

London (United Kingdom): Harry Kane has won the 2026 Men's Ballon d'Or after a prolific season with Bayern Munich. He became the first English player to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001. Spain's Alexia Putellas also claimed the Women's Ballon d'Or for the third time in her career at a ceremony held in London on Monday (October 26).

Kane beat fellow contenders Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to win football's most prestigious individual honour. The England captain scored 73 goals and provided eight assists for club and country during the season. It took his total goal contributions to 81.

His performances helped Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup. The award also recognises Kane's achievements after years among Europe's leading strikers, including his move to Bayern, where he has added major trophies to his career.

Record-breaking season

Kane's domestic performances helped Bayern win the 2025-26 season. He scored 36 goals in 31 Bundesliga appearances as the German club secured the league title.

He also delivered in the UEFA Champions League by scoring 14 goals in 13 matches. He found the net during both legs of Bayern's quarter-final tie against Real Madrid and their semi-final meetings with Paris Saint-Germain. Bayern were eliminated by PSG, who went on to win the competition.

The England captain also contributed to his national team's campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by scoring six goals and providing one assist as England finished third.

Kane's Ballon d'Or victory ends a 25-year wait for an English winner. Owen was the last English player to receive the men's award in 2001, following his achievements with Liverpool.

Alexia Putellas wins third Women's Ballon d'Or

Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas won the Women's Ballon d'Or for the third time. She previously received the award in 2021 and 2022. The Spain international now shares the record of three wins with her former Barcelona teammate and compatriot Aitana Bonmatí.

Putellas has played an important role in Barcelona's success and ranks among the top players in women's football. Her latest award adds to a career that has included major domestic and individual honours.

The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony took place at London's Palladium and marked the 70th anniversary of Stanley Matthews becoming the first recipient of the award in 1956.