GOAL said Harry Kane won the Ballon d'Or, with Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe denied their first crown again this year. The 100-strong jury of journalists chose Kane as the world footballer of the year for 2026.
Voting period record
During the voting period, Kane scored 73 goals in 65 competitive matches for England and Bayern Munich. He won the league title and the cup.
In the same period, Bayern fell to PSG in the Champions League semi-finals and England lost to Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals.
Monday evening messages
GOAL said the evening had begun 45 minutes late. Late on Monday evening, Kane posted on X: "Work hard in silence. Let success be your volume."
GOAL wrote that Kane explained in London on Monday evening: "this would not have been possible. The way you drive me on and the way we push each other to perform at our best means a great deal to me."
Kane also said: "It was an honour to play for Bayern Munich. Representing you is a real privilege. I'm delighted to bring this trophy back to Bayern Munich."
On Monday evening, Michael Olise was among the first to congratulate Kane. Olise finished ninth after a year of 27 goals and 41 assists for Bayern and France.
Bayern talks
GOAL said another player who prefers to let his actions speak louder than words is reportedly set to extend his contract again in the coming months. His current deal runs until 2029.
GOAL said Kane's Ballon d'Or could give Bayern decision-makers an argument in negotiations with Michael Olise and could open doors in other transfer negotiations.
Eberl's comment
Max Eberl was ill and stayed at home. Eberl said, "Harry Kane is an asset to Bayern Munich."