Mbappé Hopes to Dedicate Ballon d’Or to Africa if He Wins

France captain and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé says he hopes to dedicate the Ballon d’Or to Africa if he wins the prestigious individual award at next month’s ceremony.

Mbappé, whose father is from Cameroon and whose mother is of Algerian descent, said his African heritage remains an important part of his identity despite being born and raised in France and representing the European country at international level.

Speaking in an interview with RFI, the 27-year-old forward said he has always maintained a strong connection with his African roots.

“I’ve always had an upbringing steeped in African culture, even though I was born in France and did everything in France,” Mbappé said.

“I have never cut ties with my roots, my origins. It’s part of the values instilled in you.”

Mbappé has increasingly highlighted his African heritage in recent years.

In July 2023, he visited Cameroon, travelling to the capital, Yaoundé, before continuing to Douala and Djebale, the island from which his father’s family originates.

During the visit, he also visited schools supported by his foundation and met Cameroon’s Prime Minister, Joseph Dion Ngute.

Recalling his experiences in Cameroon, Mbappé said he had visited the country as a child and had always received a warm welcome whenever he returned to Africa.

“I went back to Cameroon not long ago. I used to go there when I was little, I had an amazing time. Every time I go to Africa, I’m always welcomed so warmly, I feel the love from people,” he said.

Despite his African background, Mbappé has consistently maintained that there was never any uncertainty over his decision to play for France.

“I was born in France, I am French, I did everything in France,” he said earlier this year. “I have Cameroonian and Algerian origins, but I grew up with French culture.”

As voting for the 2026 Ballon d’Or draws closer, Mbappé is among the nominees for the men’s award.

The winner is scheduled to be announced at a ceremony in London on October 26.

Mbappé said he appreciates the support he has received from across Africa and hopes to repay that support if he wins the award.

“First off, I thank them for the support over all these years. I’ve always felt so loved every time I’ve set foot on the African continent,” he said.

“I think that, having African origins, it’s always a pleasure when people associate me with the Ballon d’Or.

“I thank them for everything and I hope to leave with the Ballon d’Or, and in one way or another, dedicate it to them.”

Mbappé is seeking the first Ballon d’Or of his career after another prolific campaign with Real Madrid and an impressive international performance with France.

During the 2025-26 season, he scored 25 goals to finish as La Liga’s leading scorer. He also netted 15 goals in the Champions League and two more in the Copa del Rey.

Overall, Mbappé finished the campaign with 42 goals in 44 appearances for Real Madrid.

If he wins the award, he would join a select group of Ballon d’Or winners of African origin, including George Weah, Karim Benzema, Zinedine Zidane, Eusébio and Ousmane Dembélé.

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