Alexia Putellas has won the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or, becoming a three-time winner of the award just months after joining Women’s Super League club London City Lionesses.
The Spain midfielder, 32, received the award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday 26 October. Her previous victories came in 2021 and 2022, and the latest success draws her level with compatriot Aitana Bonmatí on three wins.
Barcelona performances behind third award
Putellas’ recognition follows a highly successful final season with Barcelona. UEFA says she scored seven goals and provided seven assists during the club’s triumphant 2025/26 Women’s Champions League campaign, earning the competition’s Player of the Season award.
Barcelona won four trophies during that season. Putellas was also named Player of the Finals as Spain won the 2025 Women’s Nations League.
London City Lionesses connection
The midfielder joined London City Lionesses ahead of the 2026/27 season, bringing one of world football’s most decorated players into the Women’s Super League. Although she now plays in England, this year’s award chiefly recognises her achievements with Barcelona and Spain during the preceding season.
Women’s Ballon d’Or top ten
- Alexia Putellas (Spain, Barcelona/London City Lionesses)
- Ewa Pajor (Poland, Barcelona)
- Khadija Shaw (Jamaica, Manchester City)
- Melchie Dumornay (Haiti, OL Lyonnes)
- Patri Guijarro (Spain, Barcelona)
- Caroline Graham Hansen (Norway, Barcelona)
- Pernille Harder (Denmark, Bayern Munich)
- Clàudia Pina (Spain, Barcelona)
- Alessia Russo (England, Arsenal)
- Temwa Chawinga (Malawi, Kansas City Current)
England captain Harry Kane won the men’s Ballon d’Or at the same ceremony. Barcelona were named Women’s Club of the Year, with Pere Romeu receiving the Women’s Coach of the Year award.
