Bayern Munich striker and England captain Harry Kane has won the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman to claim football’s most prestigious individual award since Michael Owen in 2001.
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The 33-year-old forward was crowned at the 70th edition of the ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26, 2026, capping a remarkable 2025–26 campaign for both club and country. Kane edged out Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal to secure the top honor.
Kane scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern Munich during the season, spearheading the German giants to a domestic league and cup double. Across all competitions, including international fixtures, his tally reached 73 goals.
On the international stage, Kane captained England to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing the tournament with six goals.
“I am almost speechless,” Kane said upon receiving the award. “Being here in London has made it extra special… Thank you to everyone who voted for me”.
Kane’s victory ends a quarter-century drought for English football, with Owen having been the last player from the country to receive the honor in 2001.
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