Harry Kane Wins 2026 Ballon d'Or as Messi Misses Out on Top Three

Harry Kane has secured the 2026 Ballon d'Or, outshining talents like Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi during a notable ceremony in London. The Bayern Munich striker, who also represents England, became the first English player to win this prestigious award since Michael Owen in 2001.

Kane's outstanding season featured a domestic treble with Bayern Munich and an impressive performance at the World Cup, factors that played a key role in his victory.

Top 10 Ballon d'Or Finishers in 2026

• Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
• Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
• Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
• Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona)
• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain)
• Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain)
• Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
• Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
• Fabian Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain)

Despite leading Argentina to the World Cup final in what many considered a historic farewell on the international stage, eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi only managed fifth place. This marked the first time in years that he did not make the podium.

Kylian Mbappe finished second, followed by Lamine Yamal in third after Spain's World Cup victory. Meanwhile, Rodri came fourth.

Kane’s award ended a long wait for an English winner and highlighted a remarkable individual campaign.