Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas emerged as the biggest stars at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, claiming the top individual awards in men’s and women’s football. Kane’s reported victory followed an extraordinary goalscoring season with Bayern Munich and England, while Barcelona enjoyed a strong showing across the women’s categories. Spain’s World Cup success also featured prominently, with several of its leading figures recognised during the prestigious awards night.

Highlights
- Harry Kane won the men’s Ballon d’Or after reportedly scoring 73 goals across competitions.
- Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or.
- Lamine Yamal won the men’s young talent award for the third consecutive season.
- Barcelona collected several women’s awards, including club of the year.
- Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award for his humanitarian and charitable work.
Main Story
Harry Kane Crowned the World’s Best Male Player
England captain Harry Kane claimed the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or at a ceremony held at London’s Palladium, becoming the headline winner of the evening.
The Bayern Munich striker was presented with the award by Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário, capping what was described as a record-breaking season in front of goal.
Kane reportedly scored 73 goals across all competitions for club and country. His tally included 36 goals in the Bundesliga and 14 in the Champions League, underlining his importance to Bayern Munich and the England national team.
Before receiving the night’s biggest individual prize, Kane had also won the Men’s Striker of the Year award and the European Golden Shoe.
His achievements made him one of the most celebrated players at the ceremony and strengthened his reputation as one of the most prolific forwards in modern football.
Alexia Putellas Wins Women’s Ballon d’Or
Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or, adding another major honour to her impressive career.

Her victory contributed to a successful evening for Barcelona, whose players and coaching staff reportedly dominated several of the women’s categories.
Putellas has established herself as one of the most influential figures in women’s football, earning recognition for her technical quality, creativity and leadership.
The award also placed the spotlight on Spain’s continued influence on the women’s game, with Barcelona remaining a major force in developing and showcasing elite talent.
Lamine Yamal Extends His Award-Winning Run
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal continued his rise among football’s biggest young stars after winning the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award for the third consecutive season.

The Spanish international was among the early winners announced during the ceremony, receiving recognition following another impressive campaign.
Yamal’s reported success came after he helped Spain secure the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further boosting his standing in international football.
At a young age, he has already attracted global attention for his dribbling, creativity and ability to influence major matches. His latest award signals the expectations surrounding his future as he continues to develop at the highest level.
Spain Celebrates More Individual Honours
Spain’s reported World Cup triumph was reflected in several awards during the ceremony.
National team coach Luis de la Fuente was named Men’s Coach of the Year after guiding La Roja through a successful campaign. His recognition added to his previous achievements in European and international competitions.
Athletic Club goalkeeper Unai Simón also received the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
According to the supplied report, Simón conceded only once during the World Cup and recorded 650 consecutive minutes without conceding, setting a new tournament record.
The awards highlighted the contributions of Spain’s coaching staff and defensive unit to the national team’s success.
Kane and Charlyn Corral Recognised for Goalscoring
Kane enjoyed another moment of recognition after winning the Men’s Striker of the Year award, reportedly for the second time.
His 73-goal season was said to have surpassed the previous record of 69 goals associated with Robert Lewandowski’s 2021 award-winning campaign.
Mexico’s Charlyn Corral won the Women’s Striker of the Year award, earning international recognition for her performances with CF Pachuca.
Her achievement was particularly significant for Mexican football, bringing attention to the country’s growing presence in the global women’s game.
Barcelona Dominates the Women’s Categories
Barcelona was among the biggest club winners of the evening, collecting several awards across the women’s categories.
Young midfielder Vicky López was named Women’s Young Talent of the Year, while goalkeeper Cata Coll received the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Barcelona head coach Pere Romeu was also recognised as Women’s Coach of the Year.
The Catalan side’s success extended to the club category, where it was named Women’s Club of the Year.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain received the Men’s Club of the Year award, recognising the French club’s achievements during the season.
Bukayo Saka Receives the Sócrates Award
Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award, which celebrates footballers who make a positive contribution to society through charitable initiatives and humanitarian work.
Saka was reportedly recognised for his involvement with the Big Shoe charity.
The award highlights a different side of football, recognising the impact players can have beyond their performances on the pitch.
For Saka, the honour added another achievement to a career that has seen him become one of England’s most prominent football figures.
Ballon d’Or 2026: Full List of Winners
| Award | Winner |
|---|---|
| Men’s Ballon d’Or | Harry Kane — Bayern Munich/England |
| Women’s Ballon d’Or | Alexia Putellas — Barcelona/Spain |
| Men’s Young Talent of the Year | Lamine Yamal — Barcelona/Spain |
| Women’s Young Talent of the Year | Vicky López — Barcelona/Spain |
| Men’s Coach of the Year | Luis de la Fuente — Spain |
| Women’s Coach of the Year | Pere Romeu — Barcelona |
| Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year | Unai Simón — Athletic Club/Spain |
| Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year | Cata Coll — Barcelona/Spain |
| Men’s Striker of the Year | Harry Kane — Bayern Munich/England |
| Women’s Striker of the Year | Charlyn Corral — Mexico |
| Men’s Club of the Year | Paris Saint-Germain |
| Women’s Club of the Year | Barcelona |
| Sócrates Award | Bukayo Saka — Arsenal/England |
From Kane’s goalscoring brilliance to Yamal’s rising influence and Putellas’ continued success, the 2026 Ballon d’Or celebrated football excellence across generations. Which winner impressed you the most?
