Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé has intensified his campaign for the coveted Ballon d’Or award, expressing a strong desire to dedicate the trophy to Africa should he be crowned the world’s best player.
The French international, who joined Real Madrid, believes the 2025-26 season presented a significant opportunity for him to claim the individual accolade. During that campaign, Mbappé delivered an impressive performance, scoring 42 goals in 44 matches across all competitions. He also achieved a historic milestone by becoming the World Cup’s all-time top scorer.
A Special Connection to Africa
Mbappé’s pledge to Africa highlights his deep connection to the continent. In an interview, he acknowledged his African roots and the consistent support he has received. He stated that he has “always felt very loved every time I’ve set foot in Africa” and that it is “always a pleasure to see people associate me with this award” due to his heritage.
The significance of African support extends beyond sentiment. African representatives account for 20% of the total Ballon d’Or votes, making their collective voice a considerable factor in the outcome of the award. Mbappé’s public acknowledgement and dedication could resonate strongly with this crucial voting bloc.
Ambition for the Top Award
With the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaching, Mbappé’s media appearances underscore his ambition to win the award for the first time in his career. His exceptional goal-scoring record and World Cup achievement from the previous season form a strong basis for his candidacy.
Should Mbappé succeed in winning the Ballon d’Or, his intention to dedicate it to Africa would mark a significant moment, celebrating his roots and acknowledging the continent’s passionate football fanbase.