By Oscar Okhifo
England captain Harry Kane and Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas emerged as the headline winners at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday.
Kane won the Men’s Ballon d’Or for the first time, becoming the first Englishman to claim the award since Michael Owen in 2001. Putellas, meanwhile, secured the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time in her career, having previously won it in 2021 and 2022.
Their victories headlined a ceremony that recognised outstanding performances by players, coaches and clubs across men’s and women’s football.
Kane’s triumph ended a 25-year wait for an English winner of the men’s award. The prolific forward has built a reputation as one of his generation’s leading goalscorers, earning recognition for his consistency, leadership and performances at the highest level.
His maiden Ballon d’Or adds another major individual honour to a career defined by goalscoring achievements and international recognition.
Putellas further cemented her place among the leading figures in women’s football with her third triumph. The Barcelona midfielder’s latest success reinforces her standing as one of the most accomplished players of her generation.
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award, while his club teammate Vicky López claimed the women’s prize.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón received the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, with Barcelona’s Cata Coll winning the women’s equivalent.
Kane also claimed the Men’s Striker of the Year award, while Mexico international Charlyn Corral won the Women’s Striker of the Year honour.
In the coaching categories, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente was named Men’s Coach of the Year, while Barcelona manager Pere Romeu won the women’s award.
Paris Saint-Germain took home the Men’s Club of the Year prize, while Barcelona was named Women’s Club of the Year.
Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian work and social initiatives.
The award honours football figures whose charitable activities and social contributions extend beyond the pitch. Saka’s recognition highlighted the sport’s potential to make a wider social impact and improve lives beyond the confines of competition.
The 2026 ceremony marked the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d’Or, established in 1956 and now regarded as one of football’s most prestigious individual honours.
Over the decades, the award has recognised players whose performances have shaped the sport and secured their places in football history.
Kane’s maiden victory and Putellas’s third title added new milestones to that history, while the awards for emerging talents, goalkeepers, strikers, coaches, clubs and humanitarian contributions celebrated the many ways individuals and teams continue to influence the game.