Bayern Munich and England striker Harry Kane has won the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001 to claim football’s most prestigious individual award.
The 33-year-old was recognised after an outstanding 2025–26 campaign in which he scored 61 goals for Bayern Munich across all competitions and added 12 goals for England, taking his combined tally for club and country to 73.
Kane’s triumph marks a significant milestone in a career defined by prolific goalscoring, consistency and determination to compete at the highest level.
Speaking after receiving the award at Monday’s ceremony in London, Kane struggled to contain his emotions, describing the occasion as particularly special because it took place in his home city.
“I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special. Made it a good omen for me tonight,” he said.
The England captain thanked everyone who voted for him, acknowledging the quality of the competition for this year’s award.
“Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year,” Kane said.
He also congratulated the other nominees and winners, recognising the standard of football represented at the ceremony.
“Some world-class players in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight,” he added, before emphasising that determination and hard work could help players achieve their ambitions.
Kane’s goalscoring record was central to his candidacy. He scored 36 Bundesliga goals during the 2025–26 season, helping Bayern secure the league title, and also won the European Golden Shoe for the second time.
His performances for club and country further strengthened his position among the leading players in world football, combining clinical finishing with intelligent movement, creative link-up play and leadership.
The striker described the campaign as the best of his career, crediting the teammates and support network who helped him maintain his performance levels.
His success also ends a 25-year wait for an English winner of the men’s Ballon d’Or. Owen was the last Englishman to receive the honour, winning it in 2001 following an exceptional season with Liverpool.
Before joining Bayern Munich in 2023, Kane established himself as Tottenham Hotspur’s record goalscorer and one of the Premier League’s most productive forwards.
His move to Germany provided a new platform to pursue major trophies while maintaining the scoring consistency that had made him one of Europe’s most feared strikers.
The Ballon d’Or, presented by France Football, recognises outstanding individual performances in football. The 2026 ceremony was held at the London Palladium on October 26, marking the award’s 70th anniversary.
Kane’s victory represents a landmark moment for English football and a personal achievement for a player whose career has combined sustained goalscoring excellence with a determination to succeed at the highest level.
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