Football has a new king of the individual awards! Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, ending England’s 25-year wait for a winner of the prestigious men’s trophy.
The Bayern Munich and England striker claimed the award at Monday night’s ceremony in London, beating Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé.
It is a major milestone for Kane, who becomes the first Englishman to win the men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001.
Goals, trophies and a season to remember
Kane’s victory follows an outstanding 2025/26 campaign. He scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern Munich and finished the season with 73 goals for club and country.
His performances helped Bayern secure the Bundesliga title and German Cup, while he also scored six goals at the World Cup as England reached the semi-finals.
For years, Kane has been recognised as one of the most consistent strikers in world football. Now, he has the individual award to match his remarkable goalscoring record.
What about Mbappé and Yamal?
Mbappé finished second, with Yamal taking third place. Both players remain among football’s biggest stars, but Kane’s consistency and trophy-winning season ultimately secured him the top honour.
The result is sure to spark debate among supporters, particularly those who believed Mbappé or Yamal deserved to win.
The big question: Did Harry Kane deserve the 2026 Ballon d’Or, or was another player more deserving?
Share your thoughts in the comments!