Bayern’s Harry Kane lifts the 2026 Ballon d’Or after a stellar 2025‑26 season.
Harry Kane, Bayern Munich’s marquee striker, captured the 2026 Ballon d’Or after a dazzling 2025‑26 season, outpacing Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal. Below are reactions from the player himself and close allies.
<!–>
Kane end’s Bundesliga and England’s wait for a Ballon d’Or
Harry Kane: “It’s an honour to play for Bayern Munich. To represent you is a real privilege. I’m glad to be bringing this trophy back to Bayern Munich. Without you guys and the rest of the team, it wouldn’t be possible, the way you guys push me, the way we compete. Since I’ve been with you, I have improved as a player, improved as a person and a leader. Thanks to your leadership. So thank you very much.
“Not many people would have thought it and maybe even myself wouldn’t have thought I’d be this far. I had to go through many ups and downs, especially early in my career. I was never the person that people thought was going to be the superstar like some of the guys now. I had to bide my time and work hard. A lot of times it was me against my own mind and I had to come through it. I had to show self-belief, determination. I think that grounded me, even when I did make it at the highest level to keep improving and keep getting better. No matter what I achieve, how many goals I score, winning the Ballon d’Or, it’s always about getting better. This is a showcase of that.”
–> <!–>
–>
Recommended editorial content from JWPlayerAt this point you will find external content from JWPlayer that complements the article. You can show it with a click and hide it again.
I consent to see external content from . This allows personal data to be shared with and cookies set by . See their privacy policy for details | Edit cookie settings
Thomas Tuchel (England and ex‑Bayern coach): “I ran out of superlatives long ago, yet it thrills me to see you finally honoured by the football world. Being the first Englishman in 25 years to claim this massive prize makes it extra special, and we’re lucky to call you our leader. Enjoy the moment with family, then get back to doing what you do best – finding the net and winning matches.”
Prince William: “Huge congratulations to Harry Kane on winning the Ballon d’Or! What a fantastic, well‑deserved achievement. A brilliant captain, a remarkable player, and a source of unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.”
Watch: Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane returns to Munich
<!–>
Recommended editorial content from JWPlayerAt this point you will find external content from JWPlayer that complements the article. You can show it with a click and hide it again.
I agree that external content from will be shown to me. This enables personal data to be transmitted to and cookies to be set by . You can find out more about this in ‘s privacy statement | Edit cookie settings–>
<!–>
Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane arrives back in Munich –><!–>
–>
Herbert Hainer (Bayern president): “Today is a proud day for Bayern. Harry can do everything – he scores endlessly. Joining the ranks of Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller and Karl‑Heinz Rummenigge says it all about our shared story. The club and Harry have grown together, reaching the highest goals. We’re proud he’s part of our Bayern family as an outstanding athlete and person. Some wear a shirt – Harry lives the team.”
Jan‑Christian Dreesen (Bayern CEO): “Harry fully merits this accolade. He’s shattered record after record for years. Beyond goals and assists, his brilliant character shines. A German‑club player winning the Ballon d’Or after three decades sends a strong signal for the Bundesliga. He’s a global football personality and a role model far beyond the pitch.”
Max Eberl (Bayern board member for sport): “Harry is an asset to Bayern and would be to any side. He assumes responsibility on the field and in the dressing room; teammates follow his lead daily. This award rewards his impressive career as a whole. Receiving the Ballon d’Or here in his home city delivers a powerful message: never give up.”
Christoph Freund (Bayern sporting director): “We’re thrilled by Harry’s displays. It isn’t only his goals that make him exceptional, nor just his character off the pitch. He’s a great guy – world‑class yet down‑to‑earth. He’s taken the centre‑forward role to a new level, inspiring young players. He’s unquestionably among football’s greatest.”
Marc Lenz and Steffen Merkel (Bundesliga CEOs): “Harry Kane stands as one of the most outstanding talents of his generation. He embodies extraordinary commitment and repeatedly inspires millions of fans worldwide. No one deserves the 2026 Ballon d’Or more. Watching him week in, week out in the Bundesliga is a true pleasure.”
Luis Díaz: “Harry deserves everything. A superb player, a superb person. I’m proud we helped him reach the Ballon d’Or.”
Lothar Matthäus (1990 Ballon d’Or winner): “I’m glad Harry won – otherwise it would have been an almost all‑Spanish fête in London. Bayern and the Bundesliga benefit from Kane, and the reverse is true. He likely wouldn’t have won at any other club. Bayern has further developed and matured him; he’s better there, as he noted in his speech. He claimed his first title with Bayern and more will follow, fulfilling a lifelong dream. The only thing missing now is a Champions League triumph…”
Jürgen Klinsmann (Bundesliga Legend): “Huge congratulations on the Ballon d’Or. Well deserved. You’re not only a fantastic player but also a fantastic human being. You truly earned the award. Will you lead Bayern to European glory next season?”
<!–>
Recommended editorial content from JWPlayerAt this point you will find external content from JWPlayer that complements the article. You can show it with a click and hide it again.
I agree that external content from will be shown to me. This enables personal data to be transmitted to and cookies to be set by . You can find out more about this in ‘s privacy statement | Edit cookie settings–>
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
