Kane crowned Ballon d’Or winner after 61-goal Bayern season

Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001 to claim football’s most prestigious individual award.

The Bayern Munich striker received the honour at a ceremony in London on Monday after an outstanding season in which his goals helped the German club secure domestic silverware.

Kane scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign, finishing the season with 73 goals for club and country. His performances established him among the leading contenders for the award.

The England captain also won the Gerd Müller Trophy for the best men’s striker of the year, adding another individual accolade to an already remarkable campaign.

Reflecting on his achievements, Kane expressed pride in his performances, describing the campaign as the best of his career.“I can be very proud. It has been the best season of my career,” he said.

Kane also acknowledged Tottenham Hotspur, the club where he developed into one of England’s leading strikers before leaving for Bayern Munich in 2023. He expressed appreciation for the role his former club played in his development and career.

The Ballon d’Or victory represents a significant milestone for Kane, who spent years scoring goals for Tottenham but left without winning a major team trophy with the north London side.

His move to Germany has since brought a new chapter of success, with domestic trophies and individual recognition strengthening his standing in European football.Kane’s triumph ends England’s 25-year wait for the men’s Ballon d’Or. Owen was the last Englishman to win the award, following his outstanding performances for Liverpool in 2001.

The latest recognition rewards Kane’s consistency, goalscoring record and contributions to Bayern Munich and the England national team during a season that has brought him to the summit of the individual game.