Putellas Wins Record-Equalling Third Ballon d’Or in Historic Night for Spanish Football

Alexia Putellas claimed the Ballon d’Or Féminin for a record-equalling third time on Monday night, cementing her place among the greatest players in women’s football history. The Spain midfielder received the prestigious award at the ceremony in London, matching the three titles previously won by her compatriot and former Barcelona teammate Aitana Bonmatí.

Putellas, 32, was recognised primarily for her outstanding performances during the 2025-26 season with Barcelona. She captained the side to a remarkable quadruple that included the Liga F title, the Copa de la Reina, the Spanish Super Cup and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Her leadership and consistent excellence helped Barcelona dominate domestic and European competition once again.

A Triumphant Return to the Summit

The victory marks a powerful chapter in Putellas’ career. She first lifted the Ballon d’Or in 2021 and retained it the following year. A serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2022 interrupted her momentum and forced a long recovery. While she worked her way back to fitness, Bonmatí stepped forward and claimed the award in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

In the most recent campaign Putellas rediscovered her best form. She contributed significantly in attack and midfield, scoring and creating goals at a high level while organising the team from the centre of the park. Officials also named her the UEFA Women’s Champions League Player of the Season after Barcelona’s successful European run.

Her success continued the remarkable Spanish dominance of the award. The past six Ballon d’Or Féminin trophies have all been won by either Putellas or Bonmatí. Only Norway’s Ada Hegerberg in 2018 and the United States’ Megan Rapinoe in 2019 have broken the Spanish hold since the award’s introduction.

New Chapter in the Women’s Super League

In July 2026 Putellas left Barcelona after 14 years and more than 500 appearances. She signed for Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses, becoming the first player from the English top flight to win the Ballon d’Or. The move represented a new challenge for the midfielder, yet her performances in her final season at Barcelona proved decisive in the voting.

An international panel of journalists from FIFA’s top-50 ranked countries selected Putellas as the clear winner. Barcelona striker Ewa Pajor finished second in the voting, while Manchester City forward Khadija Shaw took third place. Several other Barcelona players also featured prominently in the top ten, underlining the club’s continued strength.

Legacy and Leadership

Putellas has long been regarded as one of the most complete midfielders in the women’s game. Her technical quality, vision, set-piece delivery and ability to score from midfield have set her apart. Beyond individual brilliance, she has repeatedly shown the capacity to elevate those around her.

At international level she remains a key figure for Spain. She helped the national team win the Women’s Nations League and continues to contribute goals and assists while guiding younger players. Her experience and composure make her a natural leader on and off the pitch.

In her acceptance remarks Putellas spoke about the importance of belief and opportunity. She encouraged young players of all backgrounds to pursue football without listening to those who might discourage them. The message resonated strongly given her own journey through injury and recovery.

Broader Context of the 2026 Awards

The same evening saw England’s Harry Kane win the men’s Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman to claim the award since Michael Owen in 2001. Barcelona also collected several additional honours, including recognition for their coach and club achievements, further highlighting the Spanish club’s influence on the women’s game.

Putellas’ third Ballon d’Or arrives at a time of continued growth for women’s football. Increased investment, stronger domestic leagues and greater global visibility have raised the standard of competition. Her ability to remain at the highest level across multiple seasons demonstrates both individual excellence and the rising quality of the sport.

Looking Forward

At 32 Putellas continues to perform at an elite level. Her move to the Women’s Super League offers a fresh environment and the chance to help develop a new club project. Supporters of London City Lionesses will hope her experience and quality can accelerate the team’s progress.

Meanwhile, the Spanish dominance of the Ballon d’Or Féminin shows no immediate sign of ending. With a deep pool of talent emerging from Barcelona and the national team system, future contenders will need to reach exceptional heights to interrupt the pattern.

Alexia Putellas has now equalled the record for the most Ballon d’Or Féminin titles. The third award rewards not only one outstanding season but a career defined by resilience, leadership and sustained excellence. Her story remains an inspiration for the next generation of players and a landmark moment in the modern history of women’s football.

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