Harry Kane is emerging as the favourite to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, potentially becoming England’s first recipient since Michael Owen claimed the award in 2001.

The Bayern Munich striker enjoyed an outstanding campaign, scoring 73 goals in 65 appearances for club and country while helping Bayern secure domestic league and cup honours.

However, Kane faces significant competition from Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe, who have also delivered impressive individual performances.

Speaking about the possibility of winning, Kane said: “I’d love to be able to achieve something like that. It would be a massive milestone in my career.”

The England captain also admitted the anticipation was affecting his family, adding: “I think my wife would prefer to know and my family… it’s very stressful for everyone.”

Yamal And Mbappe Challenge Kane

Bayern manager Vincent Kompany praised Kane’s priorities, saying: “What made Harry happy the most in recent years is that he finally won his first team trophies here.”

He added: “Now if he can crown his career or his season with the Ballon d’Or, that would be deserved for the way he plays for the team.”

Yamal, who finished runner-up to Ousmane Dembele last year, remains confident about his chances. “For me, Mbappe and me, we’re the two best players in the world,” he said.

The Barcelona teenager also declared: “I honestly think that, as the best in the world, maybe there are two of us, and this year I would deserve it because of what I’ve won.”

Mbappe enters the contest after finishing as the leading scorer in La Liga, the Champions League and the World Cup, despite winning none of those competitions.

Reflecting on his World Cup record, Mbappe said: “Being the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, overtaking all the great legends in the history of the sport in the most important tournament there is, is something that really stands out.”

Asked about his vote, the French forward joked: “Who am I voting for? Myself, reports France 24.

Meanwhile, Alexia Putellas is tipped to win her third women’s Ballon d’Or, with Ewa Pajor emerging as a leading challenger after Barcelona’s Champions League triumph.