Harry Kane's Ballon d'Or 2026 Triumph Has England Celebrating One of Their Own

London celebrated in style last night as one of its favourite sons, Harry Kane, took to the Palladium stage and won the 2026 Men's Ballon d'Or.

Fans gathered outside the iconic London Palladium and chanted his name throughout the evening. They erupted when the 33-year-old emerged after the press conference, proudly holding the Golden Ball aloft.

Surrounded by friends and family, England's captain lifted the trophy several times to deafening cheers. Some supporters had climbed to balconies and even lamp posts for a better view of their hero.

Kane is England's first Ballon d'Or winner since Michael Owen 25 years ago. He could not hide a broad smile as he received the award inside the auditorium from one of his own striking idols, the legendary Ronaldo Nazario.

At the press conference that followed, the Bayern Munich forward, who scored a remarkable 73 goals for club and country in 2025/26, showed his usual humility at the pinnacle of his individual career. He recalled playing football in the park with his brother, Charlie, as children, and shared a line that struck a chord with English journalists who have followed his journey since his early loan spells at Leyton Orient and Leicester City.

Kane also reflected on how fitting the evening was. It marked the high point of a career with many highlights, and it took place on home soil, just five miles from where he grew up.

This morning, Prince William added his voice to the nationwide praise:

Elsewhere at the ceremony, Alexia Putellas won her third Ballon d'Or, and Lamine Yamal likewise claimed the Best Young Talent award for the third time. Read the full reactions to an unforgettable night on ballondor.com.