The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony took place at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26, marking the 70th edition of football’s prestigious individual awards. The ceremony began around 45 minutes later than scheduled, following the announcement of several rankings and the arrival of football’s biggest stars on the red carpet.
Harry Kane was crowned the Men’s Ballon d’Or winner, while Alexia Putellas claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or. The ceremony celebrated outstanding individual performances across men’s and women’s football, alongside awards recognizing young talent, coaches, goalkeepers, clubs, and contributions to society.
Lamine Yamal and Vicky López Win Young Player Awards
Lamine Yamal won the Men’s Young Player of the Year award, extending his remarkable run with a third consecutive triumph. The Barcelona and Spain star continued to establish himself as one of the most exciting talents in world football.
Vicky López claimed the Women’s Young Player of the Year award for the second consecutive year. The 20-year-old Barcelona and Spain international was recognized for her performances and continued development at the highest level.
Coaches of the Year
Luis de la Fuente received the Men’s Coach of the Year award for his work with Spain’s national team.
Pere Romeu was named Women’s Coach of the Year in recognition of his work with Barcelona Femení.
Goalkeepers of the Year
Unai Simón won the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, while Cata Coll took home the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year trophy.
Both Spanish goalkeepers were recognized for their performances between the posts at club and international level.
Bukayo Saka Receives the Sócrates Award
Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award, which recognizes footballers for their humanitarian work and social impact. The award was presented by Nigerian musician Burna Boy.
Club of the Year Awards
Paris Saint-Germain were named Men’s Club of the Year, while Barcelona Femení received the Women’s Club of the Year award.
PSG’s recognition came on a night when the club was also scheduled to face Lyon.
The awards recognized the clubs’ achievements and influence in their respective competitions. Joan Laporta and Ousmane Dembélé were among those who collected awards during the ceremony.
Strikers of the Year: Harry Kane and Charlyn Corral
Harry Kane received the Men’s Striker of the Year award after an outstanding scoring campaign. The Bayern Munich and England forward reportedly scored 73 goals in 64 matches, underlining his prolific finishing and consistency in front of goal.
Charlyn Corral won the Women’s Striker of the Year award. The Mexican forward, who plays for Pachuca, was recognized after reportedly scoring 49 goals in 49 matches.
Alexia Putellas Wins the Women’s Ballon d’Or
Alexia Putellas was crowned the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or winner. The Spanish midfielder, formerly of Barcelona and now associated with London City Lionesses, received one of football’s highest individual honors in recognition of her performances.
Putellas added another major achievement to an already distinguished career, reinforcing her status as one of the leading figures in women’s football.
Harry Kane Wins the Men’s Ballon d’Or
Harry Kane claimed the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or, completing a memorable night for the Bayern Munich and England striker.
Kane finished ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal in the race for the award. His prolific goal-scoring record and performances throughout the season helped secure the prestigious honor.
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário presented Kane with the trophy during the ceremony.
The ceremony concluded with awards presented across all major categories, recognizing the standout players, coaches, goalkeepers and clubs of the 2025–26 season.
