The 2026 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony was held at the London Palladium in London. There were 13 winners in total, with Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas claiming the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or awards.
Harry Kane takes the men’s prize
Harry Kane won the men’s Ballon d’Or, pipping Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to the top prize. The Independent reported that Kane became the first Englishman in 25 years to win the men’s Ballon d’Or. The Independent also reported that Kane scored 73 goals in 65 matches last season.
Third Women’s Ballon d’Or for Putellas
Alexia Putellas won the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time. The Independent reported that Putellas was an integral part of Barcelona’s quadruple-winning campaign last season.
Young Talent award for Yamal
Lamine Yamal won the Young Talent of the Year award. The Independent reported that Yamal believed his teammate Pau Cubarsi deserved the award instead.
Coach award goes to de la Fuente
Luis de la Fuente won the Men’s Coach of the Year award. The Independent reported that de la Fuente guided Spain to the World Cup in North America.