Ballon d’or 2026: Harry Kane wins ahead of Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal; first Englishman in 25 years

Harry Kane has claimed the prestigious Ballon d'Or award for the 2025-26 season, marking the first time an English player has won the prestigious accolade in 25 years. The honor was bestowed upon the 33-year-old during a ceremony held in London on Monday. Kane's impressive 2025-26 campaign for Bayern Munich and the England national team resulted in a remarkable goal tally of 73, securing him the prestigious European Golden Shoe award as well.

During the 2024-25 Bundesliga and DFB Pokal season, Kane led Bayern Munich to a historic double triumph, scoring 14 goals in the process. While his performances in the Champions League last season were equally stellar, with 15 goals behind Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid (15), they were not enough to propel Bayern to the finals, where they were defeated by Paris Saint-Germain.

Kane's leadership of England at the 2022 FIFA World Cup was another highlight, as they finished third, their best-ever result since the country's victory in 1966. The forward scored six goals throughout the tournament, including crucial late strikes against DR Congo and Mexico in the round of 16. This season, Kane broke a record that had stood since 1990, held by Peter Shilton, with 125 appearances for his country. With 91 goals to his name, Kane has now become England's leading scorer.