Putellas returns to the top of the women’s award vote
Alexia Putellas won her third Women's Ballon d'Or at the awards ceremony in London on Monday, October 26, finishing ahead of Ewa Pajor and Khadija Shaw. The Spanish midfielder added the 2026 honor to her victories in 2021 and 2022.
Putellas, 32, was recognized after helping Barcelona win the 2025–26 Women's Champions League. She scored seven goals and supplied seven assists in that European campaign and was named the competition's Player of the Season, according to UEFA.
The award reflects that completed campaign, even though her club career has since entered a new chapter. Putellas joined London City Lionesses before the 2026–27 season, and the official awards listing identifies both Barcelona and her new English club.
Her international contribution was another part of the season's record. UEFA named her Player of the Finals when Spain won the 2025 Women's Nations League, adding a national-team achievement to her European club success.
Barcelona collected several other prizes in London. The club won the women's team award, Pere Romeu received the coaching honor, Vicky López won the young-talent award and Cata Coll took the goalkeeping prize. The results recognized contributions across the side that Putellas had helped lead before her move to England.
The ceremony took place as the Ballon d'Or celebrated its 70th anniversary, with London hosting for the first time. For Philippine readers, the winners were confirmed early on Tuesday, October 27. Putellas' next chapter continues with London City, while this award records the achievements of the season that preceded her transfer.