Harry Kane Beats Mbappe, Yamal to Win 2026 Ballon d’Or

Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, beating Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to emerge as the world’s best footballer at the 70th edition of the prestigious awards.

The Bayern Munich striker received the honour at a ceremony held at The London Palladium on Monday evening, capping a successful night in which he also won the Attacker of the Year award and the Gerd Müller Award.

The ceremony, held in London, carried special significance for Kane, who was born in the English capital and began his professional football career in the city.

Kane arrived at the ceremony on Monday afternoon alongside his family and a large Bayern Munich delegation, including club chairman Herbert Hainer, chief executive Christoph Dreesen and teammate Michael Olise.

The England captain had been the clear favourite for the top individual prize ahead of the ceremony.

Yamal’s win and comment on Harry Kane

Barcelona forward Yamal, another leading contender, missed out on the Ballon d’Or but won the Kopa Trophy for the best under-21 footballer for the third consecutive year.

However, Yamal said his Barcelona teammate Pau Cubarsí deserved the award more.

“This award should have been his because he plays at an incredibly high level. He deserved this trophy,” Yamal said.

Spain also had reasons to celebrate, with national team coach Luis de la Fuente winning Coach of the Year after leading the country to the World Cup title.

Goalkeeper Unai Simón received the Goalkeeper of the Year award, while Paris Saint-Germain were named Team of the Year.

In the women’s category, Barcelona midfielder Alexia Putellas won the Ballon d’Or Féminin for the third time in her career.

Her teammate Vicky López claimed the Kopa Trophy for the best young talent, while Cata Coll was named Goalkeeper of the Year.

Barcelona coach Pere Romeu won the Women’s Coach of the Year award, as the Catalan club was named Women’s Club of the Year.