England captain Harry Kane has won the men’s Ballon d’Or after scoring 73 goals and 8 assists for club and country in the 2025-26 season, while Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s award for the third time.
Kane became the first Englishman to win the prestigious prize in 25 years, following Michael Owen’s triumph in 2001.
The Bayern Munich striker scored 61 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions, helping the German club win the domestic league and cup double. He also scored six goals at the World Cup, leading England to the semi-finals.
“Wow, wow, wow!” Kane said after taking the stage. “I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special. Made it a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year.
“Some world-class players in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight, and an impressive showing that determination and hard work can really achieve.”
Kane reflects on his journey
The award marks a major milestone for Kane, who struggled to establish himself at Tottenham Hotspur as a youngster before becoming one of his generation’s leading strikers.
After several loan spells, he developed into a complete forward known for his goalscoring and ability to create chances for teammates.
His move to Bayern in 2023 brought the team trophies that had long eluded him. Kane maintained that form throughout the 2025-26 campaign, finishing with 73 goals for club and country.
He thanked his former coaches, Tottenham and his wife, Kate, during his acceptance speech.
“It’s about the journey,” Kane said. “Anything is possible; work hard when nobody is watching.
“For any young boy or girl wanting to achieve their dreams, anything is possible. I wasn’t the kid who went straight to the top. I had to experience the downs. I had to find my way to be the very best right now.”
Kane beat a strong field of contenders to claim the award. Kylian Mbappe finished second, followed by Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Lionel Messi.
Putellas wins third women’s award
Putellas received the women’s Ballon d’Or after helping Barcelona win a treble during the 2025-26 campaign, alongside the Spanish Super Cup. She joined Women’s Super League club London City Lionesses in July after 14 years at Barcelona.
Players from Spain and Barcelona also won the young talent awards. Yamal claimed his third trophy, while Vicky Lopez took home the women’s prize for the second consecutive year.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente won the men’s coach of the year award, with Barcelona’s Pere Romeu taking the women’s honour.
Spain and Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simón won the men’s goalkeeper award, while Barcelona’s Cata Coll claimed the women’s prize.
Paris Saint-Germain was named men’s club of the year, while Barcelona won the women’s award. Kane also received the men’s striker of the year prize, with Charlyn Corral winning the women’s equivalent.
Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award for his humanitarian work.
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