Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas emerged as the leading individual award winners at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, with the England international claiming the men’s prize and the Spanish midfielder securing the women’s honour.
The awards were presented at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26, as the ceremony marked the 70th edition of one of football’s most prestigious annual celebrations.
Kane, who represents Bayern Munich and captains England, won the Men’s Ballon d’Or after an impressive campaign that further established his reputation as one of the world’s leading forwards.
He finished ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal, who placed second and third respectively.
Putellas, meanwhile, claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time in her career, adding to the honours she won in 2021 and 2022.
Her latest triumph followed another impressive season in which she played a significant role in Barcelona’s success before moving to London City Lionesses.
The ceremony also recognised emerging talents, outstanding goalkeepers, coaches and clubs whose performances distinguished them during the season.
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal received the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award, while Vicky López won the corresponding women’s honour.
Spain international Unai Simón was named Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year, with Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll taking the women’s award.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente received the Men’s Coach of the Year award, while Pere Romeu was recognised in the women’s category.
Paris Saint-Germain won the Men’s Club of the Year award, while Barcelona received the corresponding women’s honour.
The ceremony also recognised humanitarian contributions to society through the Socrates Award, which went to Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka. Nigerian music star Burna Boy presented the award.
The range of honours reflected the different dimensions of excellence in modern football, from goalscoring and individual technical ability to leadership, team achievements and social impact.
Kane’s victory was particularly significant for English football, ending a 25-year wait for an English winner of the men’s award.
Putellas’ third triumph further strengthened her standing among the most accomplished players in the women’s game.
Together, the winners represented a season of notable individual and collective achievements across European and international football.