By Nicole Powell
Harry Kane joined elite company by becoming the first English player in 25 years to win the Ballon d’Or award.
Michael Owen was England’s last winner in 2001, with Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan as the nation’s previous winners.
Kane beat Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe, who finished second, and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who finished third, to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or at the ceremony in London.
A special, good omen
“Wow, I’m almost speechless,” the Bayern Munich star said as he received his award.
“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.”
“It’s just the journey. For any young boy or girl who wants to achieve their dream, anything is possible,” Kane added.
“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.”
READ MORE: Pundit Gary Neville ‘sick of’ Man Utd being easy to play against – ‘they need to be more solid’
‘Beyond my wildest dreams’
Kane also spoke at a press conference following the night’s event, saying: “My heart was beating fast and I was just hoping that (Ronaldo, who presented the award) would say my name. It’s beyond my wildest dreams.
“I’m lucky and blessed to be surrounded by incredible players, incredible people, both with the national team and with Bayern Munich.
“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.
“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.”
Carragher on Kane’s win
Kane’s triumph was a popular one in England, with Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher among those to praise the Three Lions captain.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
READ NEXT: Man Utd: ‘It doesn’t do anybody any good’ – Carragher and Rooney criticise Martínez after outburst
