The 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony at the London Palladium kicked off 45 minutes late due to traffic congestion but delivered a memorable night. Harry Kane won the men's award after a tight race against Lamie Yamal and Kylian Mbappé. Alexia Putellas claimed a third Femenin title, defeating Ewa Pajor and Melchie Dumornay. Spain's dominance was evident as Luis de la Fuente won best men's coach following the 2026 World Cup, while Pere Romeu of Barcelona Femeni took best women's coach.
Unai Simón and Cata Coll were named top goalkeepers, and Lamine Yamal secured a third consecutive young men's player award.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing