Harry Kane named 2026 Ballon d’Or winner, ending 25‑year wait for Englishman

Harry Kane has been announced as the 2026 Ballon d’Or winner, ending a 25‑year gap for an Englishman to claim the prize. The ceremony took place at London’s Palladium Theatre, where Kane’s name was drawn from the final envelope and met with enthusiastic applause. This result follows a season in which he also earned the European Golden Boot, helped Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga, and led England to a World Cup semi‑final.

Ceremony details

• Kane’s name emerged from the final envelope after two hours of excitement.
• The women’s Ballon d’Or was awarded to Alexia Putellas of London City Lionesses.
• The men’s voting placed Kane ahead of co‑favourites Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé.

Achievements highlighted

• European Golden Boot winner this year.
• Key role in Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga title.
• Captained England to a World Cup semi‑final.
• Record 89 goals for club and country since August 2025.

Implications and verification

• The win marks the first English Ballon d’Or in 25 years.
• It follows France Football’s voting by journalists and administrators.
• The award brings commercial and historic significance for Kane.