Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé said he hopes to dedicate the Ballon d’Or to Africa if he wins the award.
Mbappé has African roots. His father is from Cameroon and his mother is from Algeria. He talked about his bond with the continent in an interview with RFI on Tuesday.
The France captain mentioned that he has stayed close to his roots even though he was born and raised in France.
“I have never cut ties with my roots, my origins,” Mbappé said.
He also shared his experiences during visits to Africa. He thanked African journalists for their support in the Ballon d’Or voting process.
“I’ve always felt very loved on the African continent. I hope I can leave with the Ballon d’Or and, in one way or another, dedicate it to them too,” he said.
Mbappé has never won the Ballon d’Or and is among the players competing for the 2026 award.
The 27-year-old was the top scorer in La Liga and the Champions League last season. He also finished as the leading scorer at the 2026 World Cup.
The Ballon d’Or ceremony is set to take place in London on October 26.
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