Why Kylian Mbappe wants to dedicate Ballon D'or to Africa
Kylian Mbappe was born in France, grew up in Bondy and has spent his entire international career representing Les Bleus. But he has never hidden his African roots. The Real Madrid star has now spoken about that connection while discussing the Ballon d’Or, saying he would like to dedicate the award to Africa if he wins it. “I’ve always had an upbringing steeped in African culture, even though I…
Kylian Mbappe, born in France and a French international, has always acknowledged his African roots. Speaking to RFI, the Real Madrid forward revealed that he would like to dedicate the prestigious Ballon d'Or award to Africa if he were to win it. Mbappe emphasizes that, despite being born in France and raising his entire career there, he has never severed ties with his African heritage.
His father, Wilfrid, is from Cameroon, and his mother, Fayza Lamari, has French and Algerian origins. Mbappe's relationship with his Cameroonian side of the family was strong when he was younger, but he later grew closer to his Algerian relatives. He visited Cameroon in 2023 to see his father's village. When asked about African journalists' voting habits for the Ballon d'Or, Mbappe expressed gratitude for their support and wished to dedicate the award to them if he won.
African journalists make up approximately 20% of the Ballon d'Or votes, which adds another layer to his comments. However, it's unclear whether this was a deliberate attempt to garner African votes. Throughout his career, Mbappe has openly discussed his Cameroonian and Algerian heritage, while also asserting his French nationality.
His message to African voters has generated attention as Ballon d'Or voting has commenced ahead of the ceremony on October 26.
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