Mbappe Hopes for Ballon d'Or: "I Made History"

The race for the 2026 Ballon d'Or is as open as it has been in a long time!

With Harry Kane, Michael Olise (both FC Bayern Munich), Lamine Yamal, Rodri (both FC Barcelona), Ousmane Dembele (PSG), and Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), several superstars are fancying their chances this year.

Since none of the aforementioned players managed to win all major trophies, there is no clear favourite. Mbappe is certainly hoping for his first title.

World Cup Top Scorer

"I made history this summer in the most prestigious competition, but there's still a long way to go. 2026 could be a good year for the award," said the 27-year-old Real Madrid striker at the press conference before the Champions League opener against Inter Milan.

At the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, Mbappe was the standout player for the French national team, becoming the top scorer with ten goals and the new all-time World Cup record goalscorer.

However, the "Equipe Tricolore" was eliminated in the semi-finals against eventual world champions Spain.

No Titles with Real Madrid

For Real Madrid, Mbappe scored 42 goals in 44 competitive matches. However, he won no titles with the Spanish giants.

A point that is not insignificant for the World Player of the Year award. "The journalists vote, and they will decide. I'm just focused on doing my best," said the Frenchman.

Gala in London for the First Time

The Ballon d'Or will be awarded for the first time in its history in London on October 26, 2026. The reason for this is its 70th anniversary.

The 30 nominees will be announced on September 8. The evaluation period is the 2025/26 season.

Last year, Ousmane Dembele triumphed.