Harry Kane has been hailed by Jamie Carragher after making history by winning the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or in London, becoming the first English player to claim football’s most prestigious individual award since Michael Owen in 2001.
The Bayern Munich striker edged a fiercely-contested race to lift the coveted trophy, with Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe finishing second and Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal taking third place.
Kane’s triumph marks a significant moment for English football, ending a 25-year wait for a homegrown winner and earning praise from former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Carragher.
Carragher delighted as Kane makes history
Carragher was quick to celebrate Kane’s achievement, highlighting both the striker’s remarkable career and England’s lack of success in the Ballon d’Or stakes.
“Absolutely delighted. What a career he's had, what a player he is, and as a country, we haven't got enough Ballon d'Or winners,” Carragher said.
The former England international pointed to the length of time since an English player last won the award, referencing his former Liverpool team-mate Owen, who claimed the prize in 2001.
“It's certainly been a long time. My former team-mate Michael Owen was the last to win it in 2001, so it's been a long wait,” he added.
Carragher also tipped Jude Bellingham to follow Kane’s example in the coming years, insisting England possess two players capable of reaching the very top of the individual game.
“But in terms of Harry Kane, and I think Jude Bellingham, who's going to be a future Ballon d'Or winner, we do have two of the greatest players of their era.
“I'm delighted for Kane and the country.”
Kane’s remarkable journey to the top
Kane’s Ballon d’Or success represents the culmination of a career built on perseverance, consistency and an outstanding goalscoring record.
Since joining Bayern Munich in August 2023, the England captain has continued to establish himself among Europe’s elite, scoring 61 goals during the qualifying period for the 2026 award.
His journey to the summit of world football was not always straightforward, however.
Kane endured several loan spells early in his career before establishing himself as one of the game’s most prolific forwards.
Reflecting on his achievement during the ceremony in London, the 33-year-old struggled to hide his emotions.
“Wow, I'm almost speechless. First of all, thanks again to France Football and the Ballon d'Or for this amazing event. Being in London, it is extra special; it felt like a good omen,” Kane said.
He also used his acceptance speech to encourage aspiring footballers to remain committed to their ambitions, drawing on his own experiences as an example.
“My journey wasn't straightforward, I didn't go straight to the top, I had to experience a lot of loan moves and fight my way to get to where I am now.
“I hope that can give you inspiration, and thank you very much.”
Kane credits team-mates for Ballon d’Or success
Despite winning football’s biggest individual honour, Kane was keen to acknowledge the players who have helped him reach the top.
Speaking at a press conference after the ceremony, the striker admitted he was overwhelmed while waiting to hear his name announced by the presenter, Ronaldo.
“My heart was beating fast and I was just hoping that he would say my name. It's beyond my wildest dreams,” he said.
Kane also praised his team-mates at Bayern Munich and with England, explaining how their contributions have helped him deliver his best performances.
“I'm lucky and blessed to be surrounded by incredible players, incredible people, both with the national team and with Bayern Munich,” he said.
“When you have players like Michael Olise around you, Lucho (Luis Diaz) and these guys, Bukayo (Saka) and Jude (Bellingham) and all the top, top players assisting me and putting me in positions and dragging defenders away, they obviously allow me to then express myself.”
He added: “As much as this is an individual award, I'll give thanks to them because it wouldn't be possible without any of them and that's what makes a team.”
Putellas makes history in women’s Ballon d’Or
Kane was not the only player celebrating a historic night in London, as Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or for a third time.
The Spain international joins compatriot Aitana Bonmati as one of only two players to have won the women’s award three times, further cementing her status among the greatest players of her generation.
Putellas enjoyed another outstanding campaign, captaining Barcelona to a quadruple last season before completing her move to London City Lionesses during the 2026 summer transfer window.
Her latest triumph also brings the prestigious individual honour to the Women’s Super League, providing a major boost to the profile of women’s football in England.
Speaking after receiving the award, Putellas delivered an empowering message to young players around the world.
“All the boys and girls around the world - if you love football and if you want to play football, play football. It doesn't matter if you're a boy or if you're a girl,” she said.
“Doesn't matter where you come from. Don't listen if someone tells you, you can't do it.
“Believe in yourself.”
With Kane ending England’s long wait for a men’s Ballon d’Or winner and Putellas adding another milestone to her remarkable career, the London ceremony proved a memorable occasion for both English football and the women’s game.
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