Ballon d’Or: Harry Kane hopeful London Ceremony brings good omen
By Luke Oluoch, September 18, 2026England skipper and Bayern Munich ace Harry Kane is hopeful the first-ever hosting of the Ballon d’Or award in his hometown will come with a good omen.
The 2026 ceremony for the lucrative awards comes in the wake of an extraordinary campaign that rewrote the record books for the striker. Kane netted a jaw-dropping 73 goals in 65 games, marking the second-highest tally in football history behind Lionel Messi, a feat that has placed the England talisman firmly in the global conversation as a leading contender for the prestigious individual football accolade.
Kane’s heroic 2025 season
Speaking in an interview with Marca, the ex-Tottenham striker nonetheless stayed humble when confronted with his own staggering statistics.
“It is complicated,” he said when asked about winning the prize. “I have never liked talking too much about myself. The only thing I would say is that last season was incredible, both personally and as a team.”
Reflecting on a record-breaking run, Kane termed the high-scoring achievement the best season of his life.
Not in my hands yet
“By far, it was the best season of my life. It’s true that scoring 73 goals, the second-highest tally in history, speaks for itself. I am extremely proud of it. I can only thank my teammates and everyone who helped make it possible. But the Ballon d’Or isn’t in my hands. It depends on the people who vote.”
“I am now focused on this season and excited to see what more I can do. I know there will be a lot of talk about the Ballon d’Or until October, because it’s a major award.”
With the ceremony heading to a first-ever hosting in London on October 26, 2026, the Leytonstone-born star, who spent his childhood and started playing youth football with Ridgeway Rovers in Chingford, could not help but wish the timing aligns the stars for his triumph.
Good omen
“Yes, a lot of people have mentioned it to me, and perhaps it’s a good omen. Of course, having it take place in my hometown would make it even more special. So yes, it’s a strange feeling knowing it’s being held there this year. We’ll have to wait and see what happens.”
The Ballon d’Or would add to his personal portfolio, which also includes winning his second career European Golden Shoe after netting 36 goals in 31 Bundesliga matches, claiming the Bundesliga top-scorer cannon for three consecutive seasons, and earning a World Cup Golden Boot.