Harry Kane has been named the winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or, one of the most prestigious individual awards in the football world. The Bayern Munich and England national team striker was awarded the first Ballon d’Or of his career at a ceremony held at the London Palladium in London.
With this result, Kane also ended a long wait for English football. The last English player to win the award was Michael Owen, who claimed the Ballon d’Or in 2001 while playing for Liverpool.
Kane appeared in 51 matches across all competitions for Bayern Munich in the 2025-2026 season, scoring 61 goals. The English forward's performance was one of the decisive factors in the German team's league and cup championship titles.
Kane, who also captains the England national team, scored 6 goals in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where his team reached the semi-finals. His consistent goal-scoring contribution at both club and national team levels allowed him to stand out in the race for the award.
The Ballon d’Or, which has been presented since 1956, is considered one of the most important individual awards in football based on performances and achievements throughout the season. The winner of the award in 2025 was Ousmane Dembélé, following his performance for Paris Saint-Germain.
News Source: 12punto
