Harry Kane finally reached the summit of world football, Bukayo Saka received recognition for his work away from the pitch, and Alexia Putellas reclaimed the women’s crown as the Ballon d’Or delivered a night full of memorable moments in London.
Kane’s victory was the headline story. The Bayern Munich striker scored 73 goals in 65 appearances for club and country during the 2025/26 season, helping Bayern win the Bundesliga, German Cup and German Super Cup before guiding England to third place at the World Cup.
The award makes Kane the first Englishman to win the men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001, ending a 25-year wait. He also collected the Gerd Müller Trophy for the best men’s striker, capping a remarkable individual campaign.
But one of the night’s most meaningful moments belonged to Arsenal forward Saka, who won the Sócrates Award for his humanitarian work and support for charitable initiatives, including projects helping children and families access medical care.
Saka used his moment on stage to highlight the importance of giving children opportunities to enjoy life and pursue their dreams. It was a reminder that footballers can make an impact far beyond what happens on the pitch.
In the women’s category, Putellas won the Ballon d’Or for the third time, having previously claimed the award in 2021 and 2022. The Spanish midfielder was rewarded for her outstanding campaign with Barcelona, where she played a key role in their successful European run before joining London City Lionesses.
Barcelona’s influence extended well beyond the main award. Their teenage star Vicky López retained the women’s young talent prize, while goalkeeper Cata Coll won the women’s Yashin Trophy. Coach Pere Romeu was also named women’s coach of the year after leading the team to four trophies.
Lamine Yamal made history of his own by winning the men’s young talent award for a third consecutive year. The Barcelona forward had also been among the leading contenders for the main prize, but had to settle for another recognition of his extraordinary rise.
Spain’s dominance continued elsewhere. Unai Simón won the men’s Yashin Trophy, while national team manager Luis de la Fuente took the men’s coach of the year award following Spain’s World Cup triumph.
Paris Saint-Germain were named men’s club of the year after another successful campaign, while Barcelona claimed the women’s equivalent. Mexico’s Charlyn Corral took the women’s striker award after scoring 49 goals in 49 appearances.
The ceremony was particularly significant because the 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or was held in London for the first time, paying tribute to Sir Stanley Matthews, the inaugural winner in 1956.
From Kane’s long-awaited coronation to Saka’s humanitarian recognition and Putellas’ return to the top, the evening celebrated different forms of excellence in football.
Kane may have taken home the biggest individual prize, but the night belonged to a collection of players whose achievements showed that greatness is measured not only in goals and trophies, but also in influence, consistency and the ability to inspire.
