Ballon d'Or 2026: Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas Triumph in Historic London Gala

LONDON — On a landmark evening in the West End, the 70th edition of the Ballon d'Or saw England captain Harry Kane claim football’s ultimate individual honour on home soil, ending a 25-year wait for an English recipient. Spain’s Alexia Putellas cemented her legendary status by collecting the Women's Ballon d'Or for a record third time, capping a gala marked by tactical dominance, emerging youth, and humanitarian impact.

Kane edged out Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal following a staggering 73-goal campaign across all competitions for Bayern Munich and England. Alongside the marquee Golden Ball, the Bayern striker also walked away with the Gerd Müller Trophy as Men's Striker of the Year.

Key Highlights & Major Honourees

The ceremony celebrated excellence across European football, highlighted by individual masterclasses and club achievements:

• Men's Ballon d'Or & Gerd Müller Trophy: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich / England) capped a relentless individual campaign to become the first English victor since Michael Owen in 2001.

• Women's Ballon d'Or: Alexia Putellas (Barcelona / London City Lionesses / Spain) secured the women's prize for the third time in her storied career.

• Kopa Trophy (Young Talent): Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) secured the Men’s Young Talent award once again, while Vicky López (Barcelona) took the Women's equivalent.

• Yashin Trophy (Goalkeeper of the Year): Unai Simón (Athletic Club / Spain) took home the men’s honours, alongside Cata Coll (Barcelona / Spain) in the women’s category.

• Coach of the Year: Spain’s Luis de la Fuente earned the Men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy, while Pere Romeu was named Women’s Coach of the Year after an emphatic campaign with FC Barcelona.

• Club of the Year: Paris Saint-Germain retained the Men’s Club of the Year title, while FC Barcelona Femeni were recognized as Women’s Club of the Year.

• Sócrates Award: Bukayo Saka received the prestigious honour in recognition of his extensive charitable initiatives and youth healthcare contributions through the Big Shoe Foundation.

  
  

What Was Said

Accepting his award to an ovation from the London crowd, Harry Kane acknowledged the journey behind the accolade:

"To receive this recognition in London, in front of family and colleagues, is deeply humbling. It reflects every training session, every challenge, and the collective effort of everyone at Bayern Munich and England who pushed me to reach these heights."