Kylian Mbappé has revealed his desire to dedicate the Ballon d’Or to Africa if he wins the prestigious individual award, highlighting his enduring connection with his African roots.
The Real Madrid and France forward made the remarks during an interview with Radio France Internationale (RFI) as the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or intensifies.
Mbappé, whose mother Fayza Lamari is of Algerian origin and whose father Wilfried Mbappé is from Cameroon, said his African heritage remains an important part of his identity despite being born and raised in France.
“I have always received an education with an African culture, even though I was born in France and did everything in France. I have never cut the link with my roots and my origins,” Mbappé said.
The 27-year-old also recalled his recent visit to Cameroon and the warm reception he has received whenever he travels to Africa.
“Every time I go to Africa, I am always extremely well received. I feel the love of the people, and it is really gratifying to feel the support of an entire continent,” he added.
With African journalists among those who will vote for the Ballon d’Or, Mbappé took the opportunity to thank supporters across the continent for their backing throughout his career.
“First of all, I want to thank them for the support they have given me throughout all these years. It has never changed. I have always felt very loved every time I have set foot in Africa,” he said.
“Having African origins, it is always pleasing to see people associate me with this award. It is gratifying. I thank them for everything, and I hope to be able to leave with the Ballon d’Or and, in one way or another, dedicate it to them.”
Mbappé enters this year’s Ballon d’Or race after a prolific individual campaign. He has publicly argued that his individual performances should carry significant weight in determining the winner, while admitting that failing to claim the award would be disappointing.
The Frenchman has also emerged as one of the leading contenders after finishing as the top scorer in several major competitions during the past season, including the 2026 World Cup.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, with Mbappé hoping to claim the prize for the first time.
His comments to RFI have also added an African dimension to his Ballon d’Or campaign, with the Real Madrid star making clear that any triumph would have significance beyond his individual career.
“I hope to be able to leave with the Ballon d’Or and, in one way or another, dedicate it to them,” Mbappé said.
Important quote note: If you use a direct quote in your headline or social post, I recommend using “I hope to be able to leave with the Ballon d’Or and, in one way or another, dedicate it to them” rather than “I hope to win the Ballon d’Or and dedicate it to Africa.” The latter accurately captures the meaning but is a shortened paraphrase.
