Bayern Munich Striker Beats Mbappé and Yamal to Men’s Honour as Barcelona Star Makes History
England captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane has reportedly won his first men’s Ballon d’Or, while Spain’s Alexia Putellas has claimed the women’s award for the third time.
The awards were presented at a ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26, 2026.
Kane, 33, reportedly finished ahead of French forward Kylian Mbappé and Spanish youngster Lamine Yamal after an impressive season with Bayern Munich.
The England captain scored 61 goals across all competitions, including 36 goals in 31 Bundesliga appearances. He also helped England secure third place at the World Cup, according to the report.
Expressing his emotions after receiving the award, Kane thanked his teammates, family and supporters for their contributions to his success.
Yamal finished third in the men’s voting but continued his impressive run by winning the men’s Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, recognising him as the best young player.
PUTELLAS CLAIMS THIRD WOMEN’S BALLON D’OR
On the women’s side, Spain international Alexia Putellas reportedly secured her third Ballon d’Or Féminin, returning to the top after previous victories in 2021 and 2022.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who plays for London City Lionesses, overcame a difficult period marked by a serious knee injury that kept her out of action for an extended period.
In her acceptance speech, Putellas expressed gratitude to her family and friends for supporting her recovery and helping her return to football.
Barcelona’s Vicky López won the women’s Kopa Trophy for the second consecutive year, while Barcelona and Spain coach Luis de la Fuente received recognition alongside other award winners.
Spain’s Unai Simón and Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll were named the men’s and women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, respectively. Barcelona’s women’s team won the Club of the Year award, while Paris Saint-Germain claimed the men’s honour.
Kane also shared the Striker of the Year recognition with Mexican forward Charlyn Corral.
The ceremony reportedly experienced a delay, while articles published prematurely on the official Ballon d’Or website appeared to reveal possible winners before the final announcement. The articles were subsequently removed.
