Harry Kane wins the 2026 Ballon d'Or

Harry Kane, Bayern Munich and England’s leading scorer, won the 2026 Ballon d'Or at a ceremony in London. Kane became the first English footballer to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001.

The Turkiye Times Editorial DeskOctober 27, 2026, 08:55 AMUpdated: October 27, 2026, 09:54 AM

Bayern Munich’s English striker Harry Kane won the 2026 Ballon d'Or at a ceremony held at the London Palladium on October 26. Kane became the fifth English footballer to receive the award. The last English winner was Michael Owen in 2001.

Kane finished the 2025-2026 season with 73 goals for his club and national team. He won the Bundesliga and German Cup with Bayern Munich and played a key role in England’s national team reaching the World Cup semifinals.

Kylian Mbappé finished second behind Kane in the voting, while Lamine Yamal came third. Rodri ranked fourth, and Lionel Messi finished fifth.

Speaking after receiving the award, Kane said, "Being in London makes it even more special; it felt like a good omen." Kane added, "The journey is what matters. Everything is possible for every young person who wants to fulfill their dream."

The ceremony began at 8:30 p.m. local time, 30 minutes late, after the winners were accidentally published on the award’s official website several hours earlier. Alexia Putellas won the women’s Ballon d'Or for the third time. The award for best young player went to Lamine Yamal, Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente received the coach of the year award, and Unai Simón was named goalkeeper of the year.