The round leather game, with millions of passionate fans across the world, is regarded by many as the king of sports. Football has brought joy, fame and fortune to countless people, transforming the lives of players, coaches and others who have made their mark in the game.

Beyond the excitement on the pitch, football has grown into a global industry where exceptional talent, hard work and remarkable performances can earn players international recognition and a place among the sport’s greatest figures.

It is against this backdrop that England captain Harry Kane and Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas emerged as the leading winners at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony held at the London Palladium in London on Monday, October 26.

Kane claimed the Men’s Ballon d’Or for the first time, becoming the first Englishman to win football’s most prestigious individual award since Michael Owen in 2001. Putellas, meanwhile, secured the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time in her career.

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, following Owen’s victory in 2001.

The England captain has established himself as one of the most prolific forwards of his generation, earning recognition for his goalscoring prowess, leadership and consistency at the highest level.
His first Ballon d’Or victory represents another milestone in a career that has brought him individual accolades and recognition on the international stage.

Putellas, on the other hand, added another major individual honour to her collection, having previously won the Women’s Ballon d’Or in 2021 and 2022.

Her third triumph further strengthens her standing among the most accomplished players in women’s football.

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award, underlining his growing reputation as one of football’s outstanding young players.

His Barcelona teammate Vicky López claimed the women’s prize, giving the Spanish club further representation among the evening’s individual award winners.

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón won the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, while Barcelona’s Cata Coll received the women’s equivalent.

Kane also won the Men’s Striker of the Year award, while Mexico international Charlyn Corral claimed the Women’s Striker of the Year honour.

In the coaching categories, Spain national team 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 emerged as Men’s Club of the Year, with Barcelona taking the Women’s Club of the Year prize.

The awards bring to limelight, the contributions of individuals and teams whose performances have shaped the sport over the period under consideration.

Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian work and social initiatives.

The award recognises football personalities whose contributions extend beyond the pitch through charitable activities and efforts to improve the lives of others.

Saka’s recognition underscored football’s capacity to influence society beyond competition, highlighting the importance of social responsibility among prominent figures in the game.

The 2026 ceremony marked the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d’Or, which was established in 1956 and has become one of the most recognised individual honours in football.

Over the decades, the award has celebrated players whose performances have left lasting impressions on the game, elevating their profiles and cementing their places in football history.

Kane’s maiden triumph and Putellas’s third title added new chapters to that history, while the recognition of emerging talents, coaches, clubs and humanitarian contributions reflected the different ways individuals continue to shape the sport.