Harry Kane has won the Ballon d’Or for the first time, becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to claim one of football’s most prestigious individual honours. The Bayern Munich striker finished ahead of France’s Kylian Mbappé and Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal, while Alexia Putellas secured the women’s award for the third time in her career.
The winners were announced at a glittering ceremony in London late on Monday night, 26 October. Kane’s victory marks a significant milestone for English football. Michael Owen was the last English player to win the men’s Ballon d’Or, in 2001, before Kane ended the long wait for another winner from England.
Real Madrid forward Mbappé finished second in the men’s standings, with Barcelona’s Yamal taking third place. Rodri came fourth, while Argentine superstar Lionel Messi finished fifth.
Although Yamal missed out on the main award, he won the Kopa Trophy, which recognises the best young player aged under 21. The Spanish forward claimed the honour for the third consecutive time, underlining his growing influence at the highest level of the game.
During the 2025–26 season, Yamal scored 24 goals and provided 17 assists across all competitions. He also played an important role in Barcelona’s La Liga and Spanish Super Cup triumphs. His attacking creativity, ability to create chances and eye for goal have established him as one of the most exciting young players in European football.
Coaching and Goalkeeping Honours
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente received the men’s Coach of the Year award in recognition of his contribution to the national team’s success. Spain won the World Cup under his leadership, and the honour recognised his role in guiding the side to international glory.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón won the men’s Yashin Trophy. He played a key role in his country’s defensive performances at the World Cup, conceding just one goal in eight matches. His achievement highlighted the importance of dependable goalkeeping in a successful international campaign.
Putellas Wins Women’s Ballon d’Or for Third Time
Putellas was among the evening’s standout winners after claiming the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time. The Spanish star had previously won the award in 2021 and 2022, becoming one of the most prominent figures in women’s football. Her latest success adds another major individual honour to her career.
Barcelona also enjoyed success in the women’s categories. Pere Romeu was named Women’s Coach of the Year after leading the club to 29 victories in 30 league matches. Barcelona finished the campaign with a goal difference of 121, reflecting the team’s attacking strength and consistency throughout the competition.
The women’s Yashin Trophy went to Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll. She conceded just six goals in 17 league appearances and recorded 11 clean sheets, demonstrating her ability to protect the goal and provide stability at the back.
Barcelona and PSG Recognised as Leading Clubs
Barcelona won the Women’s Club of the Year award in recognition of its achievements in the women’s game. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) claimed the men’s equivalent after defeating Arsenal in the Champions League final to secure the title for a second consecutive time.
Kane added another accolade to his collection by winning the men’s Gerd Müller Trophy, which recognises outstanding goalscoring achievements. Winning both awards made the ceremony particularly memorable for the England international.
In the women’s category, Mexican striker Charlyn Corral made history by winning the Gerd Müller Trophy. The Pachuca forward became the first Mexican player to receive the women’s award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
The awards recognised achievements across individual performance, goalscoring, goalkeeping, coaching and club football. Kane’s breakthrough victory marked a landmark moment for England, while Putellas’s third triumph reinforced her standing in the women’s game. Barcelona’s success across several categories also highlighted the club’s strength in both men’s and women’s football.
