Harry Kane Wins 2026 Ballon d'Or Ahead of Kylian Mbappé
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has been crowned the 2026 Ballon d'Or winner after a historic 73-goal season.
Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d'Or, becoming the fifth Englishman in history to be crowned with the prestigious award. The 33-year-old Bayern Munich striker claimed the honour on Monday at the London Palladium, finishing ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal following a deeply impressive 2025-2026 campaign.
The ceremony in London, England, began late following a very close vote, but ultimately recognised the English forward's exceptional goalscoring feats for both club and country over the past year.
Unprecedented Goalscoring Form
Kane secured the men's prize after delivering staggering numbers during the 2025-2026 season. The Bayern Munich forward amassed 73 goals in just 65 matches, maintaining a relentless scoring pace across all competitions.
His individual brilliance also translated into major international success. Kane led the Three Lions to a third-place finish in the World Cup, a pivotal achievement that helped cement his status as the world's best player this year.
These combined performances ensured he topped the final standings. Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal completed the men's Ballon d'Or podium in second and third place, respectively.
Double Honours for the English Striker
In addition to the main Ballon d'Or prize, Kane also collected the top scorer of the season trophy for the 2025-2026 campaign. The award, which was formerly known as the Gerd Müller trophy, recognises the most prolific goalscorer in football.
This marks another top scorer accolade for the 33-year-old. Kane had previously triumphed in 2022, an award he shared at the time with Mbappé.
Putellas Makes History Again
The 2026 ceremony also celebrated another major milestone in the women's game. Alexia Putellas was elected the women's Ballon d'Or winner, taking home the top prize once again.
This marks the third time in her career that Putellas has claimed the prestigious individual accolade, cementing her legacy among the sport's greatest players.
The evening at the London Palladium will be remembered for its dramatic, delayed start due to the tight voting margins, culminating in historic and well-deserved achievements for both Kane and Putellas.