England and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane and Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas won the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or awards at a ceremony in London on Monday.
Kane won for the first time, becoming the first Englishman to receive the award since Michael Owen in 2001. Putellas claimed the women’s honour for a third time.
The England captain scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern during the 2025–26 season, helping the club win the Bundesliga and German Cup. He finished the season with 73 goals for club and country, including six at the World Cup, where England finished third.
“I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special. Made it a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year,” Kane said after taking the stage.
“It’s about the journey,” Kane added. “Anything is possible, work hard when nobody is watching.”
Putellas was presented with the women’s award after winning the treble with Barcelona in the 2025–26 season, in addition to the Spanish Super Cup. She moved to Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses in July after 14 years at Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal won the men’s Kopa Trophy for a third time, while Vicky López took the women’s award for the second successive year.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was named men’s coach of the year, while Barcelona’s Pere Romeu won the women’s coaching award.
The men’s goalkeeper award went to Unai Simón of Spain and Athletic Bilbao, while Cata Coll of Spain and Barcelona won the women’s award.
Paris Saint-Germain won the men’s club of the year award, while Barcelona took the women’s honour. Kane also received the men’s striker of the year prize, while Charlyn Corral won the women’s award.
Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka was presented with the Socrates Award for humanitarian work.