Kylian Mbappé has made clear he believes he deserves the 2026 Ballon d'Or, citing his landmark summer at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the foundation of his case. The Real Madrid forward made the comments on Monday at a press conference held ahead of his club's UEFA Champions League fixture against Inter Milan.
The 27-year-old acknowledged that representing Real Madrid naturally draws attention to both collective and individual honours, but insisted his extraordinary personal numbers this year stand on their own merit regardless of team silverware.
Mbappé on his rivals and his own vote
When pressed on competitors such as Ousmane Dembélé, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal, Mbappé was unapologetic. He stated that winning the Ballon d'Or would not amount to theft and confirmed he would cast his own vote for himself if given the chance.
