Harry Kane Wins 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or, Ending England’s 25-Year Wait
The Bayern Munich and England striker claims football’s top individual honour after a remarkable season.
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The 33-year-old striker finished ahead of Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, who placed second, and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, who came third.
A historic achievement for England
Kane becomes the first English player to win the Men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen claimed the award in 2001. He is the fifth Englishman to win it, following Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan.
The achievement recognises Kane’s prolific scoring record and his contributions for Bayern Munich and the England national team during the 2025–26 season.
A remarkable season at Bayern Munich
Kane scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern Munich during the season, according to Reuters, while his combined tally for club and country reached 73 goals. His performances helped Bayern secure domestic honours and strengthened his case for football’s most celebrated individual prize.
He also received the Gerd Müller Trophy, which recognises the leading striker, at the ceremony.
London hosts the 70th edition
The 2026 ceremony marked the 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or and was held in London for the first time. The venue also paid tribute to Stanley Matthews, the inaugural winner of the award in 1956.
Kane’s victory ends a 25-year wait for an English winner and adds a major individual honour to his career. His achievement will be remembered as a significant milestone for both English football and Bayern Munich.
Source: Reuters and England Football.
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