Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas Win Men’s and Women’s Ballon d’Or Awards
England striker Harry Kane and Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas have been crowned the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or winners at the 2026 awards ceremony in London, celebrating outstanding performances in world football.
Kane claimed his first Ballon d’Or after a remarkable season with Bayern Munich, becoming the first Englishman to receive the prestigious award since Michael Owen in 2001.
The 33-year-old striker enjoyed an exceptional campaign, scoring 73 goals for club and country while helping Bayern secure a domestic league and cup double. He finished ahead of France captain Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal in the men’s voting. <Cite refs={[“turn394746news21″,”turn394746news25”]}/>
Kane appeared emotional as he received the award at London’s historic Palladium Theatre, where the ceremony was delayed by heavy rain and traffic congestion.
Speaking after his victory, he thanked everyone who voted for him and acknowledged the quality of the players he competed against.
He said winning the award in London made the occasion particularly special.
Putellas Claims Third Women’s Ballon d’Or
Putellas won the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time, following previous victories in 2021 and 2022.
The 32-year-old midfielder was recognised after another successful season with Barcelona Femení, where she captained the team through a campaign that delivered multiple trophies, including the league title and the Women’s Champions League.
She subsequently joined London City Lionesses in England during the summer.
In her acceptance speech, Putellas congratulated the other nominees and winners, saying Barcelona’s strong representation among the nominees reflected the club’s achievements during the season.
Her latest victory reinforces her standing among the most decorated players in women’s football.
Spanish and Barcelona Stars Dominate
Barcelona and Spanish football enjoyed considerable success across several award categories.
Lamine Yamal won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award for the third consecutive time, recognising his continued impact at Barcelona and with Spain.
Barcelona’s Vicky López claimed the Women’s Young Talent of the Year award for a second successive year following another impressive season.
Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente received the Men’s Coach of the Year award, while Barcelona Femení manager Pere Romeu was named Women’s Coach of the Year.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón won Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year, while Barcelona and Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll claimed the women’s honour.
The club awards also reflected their achievements, with Paris Saint-Germain named Men’s Club of the Year and Barcelona Femení receiving the Women’s Club of the Year award.
Bukayo Saka Receives Humanitarian Honour
Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award, which recognises footballers for humanitarian work and social initiatives.
The award highlights the contribution players make beyond the pitch through charitable activities and community engagement.
Kane also collected the Men’s Striker of the Year award, while Mexican forward Charlyn Corral of Pachuca won the Women’s Striker of the Year prize.
Full List of 2026 Ballon d’Or Winners
- Men’s Ballon d’Or: Harry Kane
- Women’s Ballon d’Or: Alexia Putellas
- Men’s Young Talent of the Year: Lamine Yamal
- Women’s Young Talent of the Year: Vicky López
- Men’s Coach of the Year: Luis de la Fuente
- Women’s Coach of the Year: Pere Romeu
- Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Unai Simón
- Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Cata Coll
- Men’s Club of the Year: Paris Saint-Germain
- Women’s Club of the Year: Barcelona Femení
- Men’s Striker of the Year: Harry Kane
- Women’s Striker of the Year: Charlyn Corral
- Socrates Award: Bukayo Saka <Cite refs={[“turn394746search4″,”turn394746news25”]}/>
The ceremony celebrated individual excellence, team success and contributions to society, with Kane and Putellas taking centre stage after memorable campaigns in European football.
