Harry Kane Wins 2026 Ballon d'Or, First Englishman Since 2001

Harry Kane, the captain of the England national team, won the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or, announced at a ceremony on October 26 at the London Palladium. This victory marks the first time an Englishman has won the award since Michael Owen in 2001.

Kane, playing for Bayern Munich, had an exceptional 2025/26 season, scoring 73 goals for both club and country, and played a crucial role in helping Bayern retain the Bundesliga title and achieve a domestic treble. Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid finished in second place, while Barcelona's Lamine Yamal secured third.

The rankings also included Rodri in fourth and Lionel Messi in fifth. The complete list of the top 30 nominees featured notable players such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Erling Haaland, among others.

Kane's achievement is significant for English football, ending a 25-year wait for another English winner of the award.