Harry Kane beats Messi to 2026 Ballon d’Or
Argentine superstar was among the candidates to win the award, along with Albiceleste striker Lautaro Martínez La entrada Harry Kane beats Messi to 2026 Ballon d’Or se publicó primero en Buenos Aires Herald .
On Monday, Harry Kane claimed victory in the 2026 Ballon d'Or, denying Argentina's Lionel Messi a record ninth award. The prestigious annual football accolade, presented by France Football since 1956, recognized Kane as the best player of the season. The event took place at the London Palladium Theatre, honoring England legend Sir Stanley Matthews, the inaugural recipient of the prize.
Kane's exceptional individual campaign, marked by 73 goals across all competitions, secured his spot as the first Ballon d'Or winner since Michael Owen in 2001. His success was compounded by winning the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, securing the European Golden Boot, and leading England to the World Cup semifinals. Although Messi was among the frontrunners, Kane's dominance in the season proved too much for the Argentina superstar to overcome.
The ceremony also celebrated other outstanding football talents, including Alexia Putellas as the women's Ballon d'Or winner.
Written by urgent.news from Buenos Aires Herald's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 4 other outlets
- Ballon D’or 2026: Harry Kane becomes first English man to win award in 25 years myjoyonline.com
- Ballon d'Or: Kane and Putellas take top awards rte.ie
- Kane’s 73-goal season puts England back on Ballon d’Or summit after 25 years thevibes.com
- Kane breaks 25-year English drought to claim top football award abc.net.au
