Sports

Harry Kane Wins 2026 Ballon d'Or in London Gala

By Kyle Bonn and Dom Farrell and Dan Gibbs

The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony took place on Monday evening at the Palladium Theatre in London, marking the first time the event was held outside France. France Football announced the winners during the gala, held under the hosting of Kate Scott and former France international Thierry Henry. Harry Kane was named the men's Ballon d’Or, becoming the first English winner since Michael Owen in 2001. On the women's side, Alexia Putellas secured her third Ballon d’Or, extending her record of consecutive wins.

Other awards presented at the ceremony included: - Kopa Trophy (Men): Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain) - Kopa Trophy (Women): Vicky López (Barcelona, Spain) - Men's Coach of the Year: Luis de la Fuente (Spain) - Women's Coach of the Year: Pere Romeu (Barcelona) - Yashin Trophy (Men): Unai Simón (Athletic Bilbao, Spain) - Yashin Trophy (Women): Cata Coll (Barcelona, Spain) - Men's Club of the Year: Paris Saint‑Germain - Women's Club of the Year: Barcelona - Gerd Müller Award (Men): Harry Kane (Bayern Munich, England) - Gerd Müller Trophy (Women): Charlyn Corral (Pachuca) - Socrates Award: Bukayo Saka (Big Shoe charity)

The event featured a mix of performances and tributes, including a segment honoring the legacy of Stanley Matthews, the first Ballon d’Or winner. The ceremony also included a presentation of the Gerd Müller trophies by Alan Shearer and actress Sophie Turner.

The Ballon d’Or rankings for the men's category were released during the event, with the top positions announced first. Harry Kane’s victory was celebrated by fans and fellow players, and he thanked his coaches, teammates, and family during his acceptance speech. The ceremony concluded with applause for all award recipients and a final acknowledgment of the contributions of former winners and football figures.

The Sporting News covered the event from the venue, reporting on the arrival of key figures such as Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal, and Michael Owen, and providing updates on the voting results and award presentations throughout the evening.