2026 Ballon d’Or pushes Harry Kane to wait for the outcome

At eight o’clock, British time, the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony will begin. Harry Kane, 33, tries to keep calm, hoping to be informed of the result before the show. The organisers have, since 2024, chosen not to notify the winners in advance, increasing the suspense.

At thirty‑three, he could become the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001 to win the trophy. Last year, he recorded sixty‑one goals in fifty‑one matches with his club, while leading England to the World Cup semi‑finals.

Other high‑profile contenders

Among the thirty nominees are Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal and Inter Miami striker Lionel Messi. The presence of these young talents and the Argentine legend highlights the diversity of the envisaged honours list.

In the Champions League, Kane confirmed his form on Wednesday, providing an assist to Alphonso Davies and converting a penalty in the 2‑2 draw against Arsenal. These actions bring his total to ten goals in eleven appearances this season.

This goal marks his tenth consecutive European match, leaving him one game short of the competition record held by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Kane’s reaction

Asked after the match, Harry Kane said: « They want everyone to be present, all the big names there; the audience is probably larger if the result isn’t known in advance, so I can understand their choice. Personally, I would have liked to know beforehand to avoid waiting the whole evening. But it’s their decision, I have no control over it. »

The organisers of France Football changed the rules in 2024, removing any prior notification to the winners. A leak that same year led to Real Madrid’s boycott, after Vinícius Júnior saw the trophy slip away to Rodri.

Kane added that he tries not to think about the rumours, preferring to focus his attention on today’s important matches and the crucial Sunday appointment before Monday’s event. He hopes to fully enjoy the Ballon d’Or evening.