Declan Rice Backs Harry Kane as 2026 Ballon d'Or Winner

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has publicly endorsed England captain Harry Kane to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or award. Rice made the declaration after Arsenal and Bayern Munich drew 2-2 in a UEFA Champions League fixture on Wednesday night, with both players finding the net during the match.

Speaking to media after the encounter, Rice named Kane as the 'clear winner' of the prestigious individual honour. The Arsenal player pointed to Kane's statistical output and on-pitch contributions throughout the season as the basis for his assessment.

Rice specifically highlighted Kane's playmaking ability and his composure in taking a penalty during the Bayern clash. As an England teammate of Kane's, Rice offered his verdict despite being nominated for the award himself.

According to multiple reports, Rice suggested Kane's performance numbers and overall impact on his club side made him stand out above other contenders in the conversation for the award. Kane, who currently plays for Bayern Munich in Germany, has been in prolific form this season.

The striker's contributions at both club and international level have drawn increasing attention as the 2026 award conversation develops. Rice's endorsement adds the voice of a fellow elite English player to the debate surrounding this year's leading candidates.