Alexia Putellas has won the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or, reclaiming the award at the Palladium Theatre in London, England, on Monday.
The Barcelona and Spain striker secured her third Ballon d’Or after previously winning the honour in 2021 and 2022. The 32-year-old enjoyed a successful year with FC Barcelona, winning the Liga F, Copa de la Reina, Supercopa de España and UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Putellas also played a key role in Spain’s midfield as the national team won the UEFA Nations League and finished as runners-up at the UEFA Women’s Championship.
Speaking after receiving the award, Putellas thanked her teammates and recognised their collective efforts throughout the season.
“I want to start by saying thank you teammates. I think anyone here could have fairly won this trophy and be giving this speech here right now. A great pleasure to play alongside each and every single one of you. Incredible experiences as a team, we overcome some difficulties, some injuries, some moments we weren’t expecting as a team and a great pride for me as captain,” Putellas said.
She also encouraged young people around the world to pursue their football dreams regardless of their gender or background.
“All the boys and girls around the world – if you love football and if you want to play football, play football. It doesn’t matter if you’re a boy or if you’re a girl. It doesn’t matter where you come from. Don’t listen if someone tells you, you can’t do it. Believe in yourself.”
The 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or carries added significance as the ceremony took place in London, where Putellas now plays. After winning 36 trophies with Barcelona, she left the Spanish club this summer to join Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses as its most decorated women’s player.
With this latest success, Putellas joins Spain teammate Aitana Bonmatí as the joint-most successful winner of the women’s Ballon d’Or. Bonmatí won the award three times, completing a hat-trick last year.
