Harry Kane wins 2026 Ballon d'Or as Bayern celebrate historic award

Harry Kane won the 2026 Ballon d'Or in London on Monday, October 26, claiming the award for the first time. The Bayern Munich and England striker was recognised after a record-breaking season, according to France24.

The result ended two long waits. Kane became the first Englishman to win in 25 years, NPR News reported, and the first Bundesliga player to receive the award in 30 years, according to CBS Sports.

The honour also changed the story of a career once defined in part by the absence of trophies. Al Jazeera described Kane's journey from being mocked as the most famous player never to win a trophy to receiving football's most prestigious individual honour.

At the October 26 ceremony, Kylian Mbappé finished second and Lamine Yamal third, according to Panorama. Alexia Putellas won her third women's Ballon d'Or, NPR News reported.

The ceremony itself drew criticism. On October 27, Indian Express reported boos over advertising breaks and premature declarations of winners during the three-hour event. Separately, Fanpage described arguments from those who believed Mbappé or Yamal deserved the men's award, while defending Kane's selection.

Kane celebrated in London before returning to Bayern training on Tuesday, October 27, according to L'Équipe. ESPN FC reported that he received a hero's welcome on his return to Germany.

On Wednesday, October 28, Bayern gave Kane a guard of honour before their German Cup second-round match against Magdeburg, ESPN FC reported. Bayern won 6-1, with Kane remaining on the bench, according to L'Équipe.

By Thursday, October 29, attention had also turned to calls for a knighthood. Kane said he would be "massively proud" to receive one, but that having everyone call him Sir would be "weird", Sky Sports reported.

Kane has returned to club football with the award secured and Bayern's public celebrations completed. CBS Sports reported on October 29 that he was still processing the achievement.

The win has prompted discussion about his future at Bayern, too. Former World Cup winner Lothar Matthaus said the award would help keep Kane at the club and described their relationship as "perfect", according to Al Jazeera. That is Matthaus's assessment, rather than an announcement about Kane's plans.

Bayern's next league opponent is Dortmund, according to DER SPIEGEL. After being rested against Magdeburg, Kane's return to match action will shift attention back from the celebrations to Bayern's season.

The knighthood discussion remains a separate question. Sky Sports reported Kane's reaction to the prospect, not confirmation that an honour would be awarded.