The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony took place on Monday, October 26, with some of the biggest names in world soccer competing for one of the sport’s most prestigious individual honors.
Harry Kane was named the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or winner, while Alexia Putellas claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or award.
The results marked a historic moment for both players, with Kane earning his first Ballon d’Or and Putellas adding another trophy to her remarkable career.
Harry Kane Wins the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or
Bayern Munich and England striker Harry Kane captured the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or, becoming the first English player to win the prestigious award since Michael Owen in 2001.
Kane’s victory followed an outstanding 2025–26 campaign in which he scored 73 goals for club and country.
The English striker finished ahead of Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal in the voting.
Kane’s triumph represents a major milestone in his career and further strengthens his legacy as one of the most prolific goalscorers of his generation.
Alexia Putellas Wins the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or
Spanish international Alexia Putellas was named the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or winner, securing the award for the third time in her career.
Putellas previously won the prestigious honor in 2021 and 2022.
Her latest victory adds to an impressive collection of individual achievements and reinforces her standing among the greatest players in women’s soccer.
2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or Rankings: Top Five
The top five finishers in the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or voting were:
| Rank | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Harry Kane | Bayern Munich |
| 2 | Kylian Mbappé | Real Madrid |
| 3 | Lamine Yamal | Barcelona |
| 4 | Rodri | Manchester City / Barcelona |
| 5 | Lionel Messi | Inter Miami |
The rankings featured a combination of established superstars and younger talents competing for the highest individual recognition in world soccer.
When and Where Was the 2026 Ballon d’Or Ceremony?
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony was held on Monday, October 26, 2026, in London, England.
The annual awards recognize outstanding performances in men’s and women’s soccer, with the Ballon d’Or regarded as one of the sport’s most prestigious individual honors.
When Was the Last Time an English Player Won the Ballon d’Or?
Before Harry Kane’s 2026 victory, the last English player to win the Men’s Ballon d’Or was Michael Owen in 2001.
Owen received the award following his outstanding performances for Liverpool and England.
Kane’s victory ended a 25-year wait for another English winner.
How Many Ballon d’Or Awards Has Alexia Putellas Won?
Alexia Putellas has won three Women’s Ballon d’Or awards:
- 2021
- 2022
- 2026
Her third victory places her among the most decorated players in the history of the women’s award.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or?
Harry Kane of Bayern Munich and England won the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or.
Who won the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or?
Alexia Putellas won the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or, earning her third career award.
Did Lionel Messi win the 2026 Ballon d’Or?
No. Lionel Messi finished fifth in the men’s rankings.
Did Kylian Mbappé win the 2026 Ballon d’Or?
No. Kylian Mbappé finished second behind Harry Kane.
How many Ballon d’Or awards has Harry Kane won?
The 2026 Ballon d’Or was Harry Kane’s first career victory.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Ballon d’Or awards celebrated two of soccer’s biggest stars, with Harry Kane making history for England and Alexia Putellas continuing her remarkable success in women’s soccer.
Kane’s first victory and Putellas’ third award highlighted two outstanding careers and added another memorable chapter to Ballon d’Or history.