According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Monday, October 26, 2026, Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas were the standout winners at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, while Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian efforts outside football.

Kane secured his first Ballon d’Or title after finishing ahead of French superstar Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal in the race for the prestigious individual award. His achievement also made him the first English player to win the honour since former Liverpool striker Michael Owen claimed it in 2001.

The Bayern Munich striker enjoyed an exceptional season, producing impressive performances for both club and country. Kane scored 73 goals across all competitions, demonstrating his remarkable finishing ability and consistency throughout the campaign. His outstanding contribution ultimately earned him recognition as the world's best male footballer.

Meanwhile, Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time in her illustrious career. The midfielder, now playing for London City Lionesses, enjoyed a highly successful campaign with Barcelona before leaving the Spanish side. She registered 26 goals and 15 assists in 53 appearances, helping Barcelona secure five trophies during the season.

Kane also shared the Gerd Muller Trophy with Mexican striker Charlyn Corral after both players delivered remarkable goalscoring performances. Barcelona received the Women’s Club of the Year award following another impressive season, while Paris Saint-Germain were named Men’s Club of the Year.

However, several PSG players were absent from the ceremony because their Ligue 1 fixture against Lyon had been rescheduled for the same evening, preventing them from attending the prestigious event.

Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll won the Women’s Yashin Trophy in recognition of her performances, while Spain international Unai Simon collected the men’s award after helping his national team win the World Cup.

Yamal also made history by retaining the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive time, becoming the first player to achieve that feat. His Barcelona teammate Vicky Lopez won the women’s Kopa Trophy.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente and Barcelona women’s coach Pere Romeu received the Men’s and Women’s Coach of the Year awards, respectively. Arsenal forward Saka was honoured with the Socrates Award for his continued humanitarian contributions, highlighting his positive influence beyond the football pitch.