Luis de la Fuente Makes History by Clinching the Prestigious 2026 Men's Coach of the Year Award

After guiding Spain to World Cup triumph, Luis de la Fuente has been awarded the 2026 Men's Coach of the Year at the Ballon d'Or ceremony. His fellow Spaniard Pere Romeu had previously claimed the Women's Coach of the Year honor for his work at the helm of Barcelona Femení.

The award, named in tribute to the iconic Johan Cruyff, recognizes the finest manager in football over a single campaign. Silverware, tactical brilliance, and overall performances are all considered when identifying a standout from the extensive list of remarkable coaches at both club and international level.

De la Fuente makes history with his victory at the London Palladium. The 65-year-old becomes the first international team manager to claim the prize since it was established—and with plenty of justification.

Spain delivered a stunning 2026 World Cup campaign, remaining undefeated across all eight matches throughout North America. La Roja conceded only one goal on their way to adding a second star to their badge, defeating the likes of Portugal, Belgium, France, and reigning champions Argentina along the way.

De la Fuente's influence was evident throughout Spain's triumph. Beyond his tactical approach, he showed no hesitation in making bold decisions that ultimately propelled his side to world domination last summer. Few managers would have dropped Pedri, but the Spaniard did. Few managers would have persisted with Unai Simón in goal ahead of David Raya or Joan García, but the Spaniard did.

Ultimately, he cemented his legacy in Spanish football history and now receives an individual accolade to honor his accomplishments.

Every Men's Coach of the Year Winner

The first-ever award was presented to Carlo Ancelotti in 2024. The Italian tactician became the inaugural recipient of the Johan Cruyff Trophy after steering Real Madrid to their record-breaking 15th Champions League crown, along with La Liga and Spanish Super Cup victories.

Ancelotti was absent to receive the accolade, however, as the entire Real Madrid delegation boycotted the event after discovering that Rodri had claimed the Ballon d'Or over Vinícius Júnior.

Luis Enrique claimed the award the following year for his extraordinary work with Paris Saint-Germain. The Parisians secured their first-ever Champions League title and also lifted Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Trophée des Champions—achieving all of this in the immediate wake of Kylian Mbappé's exit.

Now De la Fuente joins that elite group this year. The manager edged out Mikel Arteta, Unai Emery, Vincent Kompany, and Enrique on his way to the accolade.