Harry Kane claims men's Ballon d'Or to end England's 25-year wait for winner

Kane wins the 2026 Ballon d'Or, ending England's 25-year wait for a men's winner of football's most prestigious individual award.

Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d'Or, becoming the first Englishman to claim football's most prestigious individual trophy in 25 years. The England captain was announced as the winner at a ceremony at the Palladium Theatre in London, finishing ahead of Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé. Kane has scored 89 goals for club and country since August 2025 and played a major role in Bayern Munich's Bundesliga title win, while also captaining England to a World Cup semi-final.

Upon receiving the award, Kane said: "It was really tough this year, the incredible players I was up against. I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special." The 33-year-old has become a standout performer at Bayern Munich since his €100m transfer three years ago, praised for his all-round game, creativity, intelligence and professionalism. Earlier this month, Kane equalled England's all-time caps record and has 91 international goals in 125 appearances. He remains England's captain with a home Euros in two years in his sights.