Harry Kane and Alexia Putella’s named the night to themselves as they were awarded with the most coveted award for the year at Ballon d’Or in the men’s and the women category respectively.
Kane edged past Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal to win the honourable trophy, becoming the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001. In 2025-26, Kane lifted two trophies with Bayern Munich in Germany and captained England to their best FIFA World Cup finish.
With over 65 games, 73 goals and eight assists, Harry Kane also has a bronze medal to his name with England, where he captained them to their best finish in 6 decades.
A striker on paper and a quarterback on the field, Kane is a talisman for club and country.
The 33-year-old Kane says winning the prestigious individual award was built on so much more.
“Anything is possible with hard work, when no one else is watching, to go through the ups and downs, to learn through resilience, determination and self-belief,” an emotional Kane said in a message to young players, after reflecting on his early career struggles.
“My journey wasn’t straightforward. I wasn’t the kid who went straight to the top. I had to experience the downs,” he added. “I had to fight my way to be the very best right now. I hope that can give you inspiration as well.”
He further went on to thank his teammates, coaches and coaches’ parents, children, saying, “It’s past your bedtime” – and wife Kate, ” my best friend. We’ve been through ups and downs for sure. You’re my biggest supporter. You always want the best for me.”
Meanwhile, the 2026 Ballon d’Or is the third award for Putellas after emerging victorious with Barcelona and Spain. Interestingly, Lamine Yamal did not leave the ceremony empty-handed. He was awarded with the Best Young Player trophy- consecutively for the third time in a row. Vicky Lopez, also of Barcelona and Spain, was awarded with the women’s Copa trophy. The Paris Saint-Germain were named the Men’s Club of the Year. They also earned a UEFA Champions League for the second year in a row in 2025-2026. Women’s Club of the Year award was given to Barcelona.
2026 marks the 70 years of football excellence. Ballon d’Or is the most prestigious individual award in football. The trophies awarded to the honorees of the men’s and women’s catgories are crafted from 24k gold