England captain Harry Kane and Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas have won the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or awards at the 2026 ceremony held in London on Monday, October 26.

Kane claimed the men’s award after an outstanding season with Bayern Munich and England, becoming the first Englishman to win the prestigious honour since Michael Owen in 2001.

The 33-year-old striker scored 73 goals across club and international competitions during the 2025–26 campaign, helping Bayern Munich secure major domestic honours. He finished ahead of France international Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal in the final rankings.

Alexia Putellas Wins Third Women’s Ballon d’Or

Putellas claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time in her career, adding to her previous victories in 2021 and 2022.

The Spanish midfielder was recognised following an impressive campaign with Barcelona, helping the club achieve success in domestic and European competitions. She also played a key role in Spain’s international success.

Putellas finished ahead of Barcelona teammate Ewa Pajor and Jamaica international Khadija Shaw in the women’s rankings.

Lamine Yamal Among Other Award Winners

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal also made history by winning the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award for the third consecutive year.

Other winners included Bukayo Saka, who received the Sócrates Award for humanitarian and social initiatives, while Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona were recognised as the men’s and women’s clubs of the year, respectively.

The ceremony marked the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d’Or, with London hosting the prestigious football awards for the first time.

Kane’s victory ends England’s 25-year wait for a men’s Ballon d’Or winner, while Putellas further strengthens her place among the most decorated players in women’s football.

Source: Reuters, UEFA and international sports reports.