Harry Kane Ends England’s 25-Year Ballon d’Or Drought

Harry Kane has etched his name into football history after winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first English player to claim the prestigious individual award since Michael Owen in 2001.

The Bayern Munich striker received the honour at the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26, marking a historic occasion for English football.

Kane’s triumph ends a 25-year wait for an English winner and places him among an exclusive group of English footballers to have received the award, joining Owen, Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan.

The 33-year-old earned the accolade following a remarkable 2025/26 season in which he scored 73 goals in 65 appearances for Bayern Munich and England, including 61 goals for the German club and 12 for his national team.

His outstanding performances helped Bayern secure domestic honours, including the Bundesliga title and the German Cup, while his goalscoring consistency established him as one of the most prolific forwards in world football.

Kane finished ahead of France captain Kylian Mbappé, who came second, and Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who took third place in the men’s rankings.

Speaking after receiving the award, an emotional Kane expressed gratitude to those who voted for him, describing the occasion as particularly special because it took place in London.

“Wow, I’m almost speechless,” Kane said, adding that being in London made the moment extra special.

He also paid tribute to his teammates, coaches and family, recognising the collective effort behind his individual achievement.

Kane’s journey to the summit of world football has not been straightforward. After spending time on loan at several clubs early in his career, he developed into one of the game’s most dependable goalscorers, first becoming a star at Tottenham Hotspur before moving to Bayern Munich in 2023.

His Ballon d’Or victory represents the culmination of years of perseverance and consistent performances at the highest level.

The London ceremony also saw Spain’s Alexia Putellas win the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time, while England winger Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian work.

For English football, Kane’s achievement marks a historic moment, ending a quarter-century drought and adding another chapter to the country’s rich footballing legacy.