Harry Kane won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, earning recognition as the year’s outstanding male footballer at the ceremony organized by France Football at London’s Palladium on Monday. The England international and Bayern Munich striker claimed the prestigious individual award for the first time, becoming the first English player to win it since Michael Owen in 2001. 

Kylian Mbappé finished second in the men’s voting, followed by Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal in third place. Lionel Messi finished fifth, according to reports published during the ceremony’s live coverage. The Argentine superstar, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, did not travel to London for the event. The 2026 edition marks the award’s 70th anniversary, following its creation in 1956, when English footballer Stanley Matthews became its first recipient.

Kane also collected the Gerd Müller Trophy, recognizing the season’s leading goalscorer, while Yamal won the Kopa Trophy for the best young male player. In the women’s category, Spain international Alexia Putellas secured her third Ballon d’Or, adding to her victories in 2021 and 2022. The London City Lionesses midfielder returned to the top of the individual honors in women’s football. 

Several other major awards were presented during the ceremony. Barcelona’s Vicky López won the women’s Kopa Trophy, while Unai Simón was named best men’s goalkeeper and Cata Coll received the women’s goalkeeper award. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente won the men’s coaching award, and Barcelona women’s coach Pere Romeu was recognized in the women’s category. The ceremony was held in London for the first time, bringing together the world’s leading football figures for the 70th anniversary of one of the sport’s most prestigious honors.