Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas were the headline winners at the 2026 Ballon d’Or, as football’s annual awards ceremony moved to London for the first time.

Held at the London Palladium on October 26, the evening marked the award’s 70th anniversary, bringing together recognition for established stars, emerging talent and achievements beyond the pitch.

Kane received both the Men’s Ballon d’Or and Men’s Striker of the Year, while Putellas claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or.

Harry Kane celebrates a double win

The England and Bayern Munich forward collected two of the night’s principal individual awards.

His Men’s Ballon d’Or recognised his overall performance and achievements, while the striker award gave him a second distinction at the London ceremony.

The combination placed Kane at the centre of an anniversary edition that honoured contributions across the men’s and women’s game, from goalscoring and goalkeeping to coaching and club success.

Alexia Putellas leads a strong night for Spanish football

Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas received the Women’s Ballon d’Or, sharing the evening’s highest individual honours with Kane.

There was further recognition for Barcelona through Lamine Yamal and Vicky López, who won Men’s and Women’s Young Talent of the Year, respectively.

The club’s success continued with Cata Coll named Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year and Pere Romeu receiving Women’s Coach of the Year.

FC Barcelona also collected Women’s Club of the Year, giving the club a prominent presence across several categories.

Together, the awards placed experienced performers and younger players within the same celebration, reflecting the breadth of talent recognised during the evening.

Goalkeepers, coaches and clubs share the spotlight

Beyond the leading player awards, Unai Simón, representing Spain and Athletic Club, won Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year.

Luis de la Fuente, head coach of the Spanish national team, received Men’s Coach of the Year, while Paris Saint-Germain was named Men’s Club of the Year.

The Women’s Striker of the Year award went to Charlyn Corral, the Mexican forward representing CF Pachuca.

Those distinctions broadened the evening’s focus, recognising individual roles alongside the collective achievements of clubs and the leadership of coaches.

Bukayo Saka recognised beyond the pitch

Arsenal and England player Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award, which honours solidarity action.

His recognition added a community dimension to an evening otherwise centred on sporting performance.

First presented in 1956, the Ballon d’Or has become one of football’s most prestigious individual distinctions. The awards have been co-organised by France Football, part of L’Équipe Group, and UEFA since 2024.

For its anniversary edition, London provided a new setting for that tradition, with Kane and Putellas taking the two headline honours.