UK government refuses to rule out knighthood for Kane after historic Ballon d'Or win

Harry Kane could yet add a knighthood to his Ballon d’Or after the UK government declined to rule out the honour following the Bayern Munich striker’s historic win at a ceremony in London on Monday evening.

Kane, 31, became the first Englishman to claim the Ballon d’Or in 25 years, beating Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal to the award — which was presented 70 years after Sir Stanley Matthews won the inaugural prize. Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s spokeswoman offered warm congratulations from Downing Street and stopped short of closing the door on a future honour.

“To be the first Englishman to win it in 25 years is an extraordinary achievement, and what a moment to do it here at home,” the PM’s spokeswoman said. “It caps a remarkable season and Harry continues to set a brilliant example to young players across the country.”

Asked directly whether Kane could appear in the New Year’s Honours List, No.10 did not dismiss the prospect. “On your question about a knighthood, I think everyone would agree Harry Kane has given an enormous amount to English football, and this is a very special moment for him and the country,” the spokeswoman added. “But, as ever, I’m not going to pre-empt the honours process.”

Two Labour MPs have already publicly backed the idea. Rosena Allin-Khan, MP for Tooting, and Clive Efford, MP for Eltham and Chislehurst, have both suggested Kane should be knighted when he retires from the game.

Kane’s award caps a sensational period that included a strong club season at Bayern Munich and an England World Cup campaign that ended in third place. Collecting the trophy on home soil, Kane was visibly moved.

“I am almost speechless,” he said. “Being here in London has made it extra special. Thank you to everyone who voted for me — I can imagine it was tough this year with some world-class players in the room.”

The England captain also paid tribute to his international team-mates and head coach Thomas Tuchel. “We had a special year. It wasn’t the perfect year, but we had a load of great moments and built a great bond together,” Kane said. “This one is for all of us for sure.”