'King Kane': from curse to Ballon d'Or

Kane wins the 2026 Ballon d'Or at age 33, becoming the first English winner in 25 years and the fifth in history.

Harry Kane won the 2026 Ballon d'Or at a ceremony at London Palladium Theatre, with Ronaldo Nazário announcing the award. The Bayern Munich striker and England captain received a standing ovation from the crowd, visibly emotional as he held the prestigious trophy.

Kane's victory marks a historic moment for English football. He becomes only the fifth Englishman to win the award after Stanley Matthews (1956), Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan (twice), and Michael Owen (2001) — and the first in 25 years. At 33, Kane claimed the prize after scoring 73 goals in 65 matches across club and country during the 2025-26 season, also winning the European Golden Boot and the Müller Trophy for best striker.

The achievement resonated across England and Germany. Wembley Stadium illuminated its arch in gold, while Bayern Munich's Allianz Arena glowed golden with the message "Munich is golden tonight." Kane thanked his family, coaches, and clubs in his acceptance speech, singling out Tottenham for their role in his career. The British press hailed the moment as redemption for a player long considered unlucky at club level before his move to Bavaria.