Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas have been crowned the world’s best footballers at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London. The awards recognise the highest individual achievements in global football over the past season.
Kane’s victory marks a significant milestone for English football, as he becomes the first Englishman to win the men’s Ballon d’Or in 25 years. His achievement ends a long drought for players from England, with the last domestic winner being Michael Owen in 2001.
Spain’s Alexia Putellas also secured a historic result by claiming the women’s Ballon d’Or for a record-equalling third time. Her win reinforces her status as one of the most decorated players in the history of the women’s game.
Historical milestones at the London ceremony
The Ballon d’Or ceremony in London brought together the sport’s elite to celebrate individual excellence. Kane’s win follows a season defined by high goal-scoring numbers and leadership at both the club and international levels.
For England, the trophy represents a long-awaited return to the top of individual football rankings. While several English players have consistently appeared in the top ten in recent years, none had managed to secure the top prize since the turn of the millennium.
In the women’s category, Putellas has maintained a level of dominance that few players have matched. By securing her third award, she has equalled the record for the most women’s Ballon d’Or wins, a feat that cements her legacy within the sport.
The ceremony concludes the cycle of major individual football honours for the season. Both winners are expected to return to their respective club duties immediately as the new domestic league seasons approach.
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