Africa: Kane, Putellas Are 2026 Ballon d'Or Winners

What the report says

Bayern Munich forward Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas of London City Lionesses and Spain were named the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or winners at a ceremony held Monday at the London Palladium Theatre in London, England, according to Daily Trust, republished by AllAfrica. The awards recognise the standout players in world football, and this year’s honours also highlighted several other winners across coaching, goalkeeping and youth categories.

Kane’s victory is notable because he became England’s first Ballon d’Or winner in 25 years. He finished ahead of Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal for the sport’s top individual prize. Putellas, meanwhile, was recognised after a season in which she helped Barcelona win a domestic and European treble before moving to the Women’s Super League side over the summer.

The report also said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente won the men’s coach award after guiding his team to World Cup success, while Barcelona coach Pere Romeu took the women’s coaching honour following a season that included the Spanish league, cup, Super Cup and Champions League. Other winners mentioned included Bukayo Saka for humanitarian work, Barcelona in the women’s club category, and Lamine Yamal among the young talent awards. The results matter because the Ballon d’Or is one of football’s most prestigious annual recognitions.