Harry Kane has declared himself a genuine contender for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, insisting that a strong club campaign combined with England winning the FIFA World Cup 2026 could propel him to football's most prestigious individual honour.

The Bayern Munich striker made the remarks on the club's official website, pointing to a remarkable 61-goal season as the foundation of his case. "I'd be one of the favourites, definitely," Kane said. "Given the trophies I've won this season and the number of goals I've scored, I'd be in the running."

Kane was candid about the weight an international trophy would carry. "Especially as, should England win the World Cup, one could imagine the trophy going to an English player," he added — a clear signal that he views the summer tournament as the decisive factor in any Ballon d'Or bid.

A historic campaign at Bayern Munich

Kane's season at Bayern Munich has been nothing short of record-breaking. The striker has shattered multiple Bundesliga scoring records and, beyond the goals, has grown into what many consider the world's most complete centre-forward — combining elite finishing with creative playmaking, tactical awareness, and pressing contributions.

He also identified Michael Olise and the Champions League finalists among the current frontrunners. "When you look at who the current favourites are to win the Ballon d'Or, there's Michael, the Champions League finalists and me," Kane noted.

England's long wait and a London ceremony

Winning the FIFA World Cup 2026 would end England's 60-year wait for a major international trophy — a triumph that last arrived in 1966. Such a feat would dramatically strengthen Kane's Ballon d'Or claim.

It would also make Kane the first Englishman to claim the award since Michael Owen in 2001. Adding further drama, the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled to be held in London — which would make any English winner's moment all the more historic.