Francis Ngannou names Mbappé Ballon d’Or winner despite Kane's triumph

While heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou congratulates Harry Kane for his Ballon d’Or win, he states, in a message posted on Tuesday, that Kylian Mbappé is, in his view, the true winner of this football award in 2024.

Ngannou's Solidarity and Admiration

The Cameroonian fighter expressed his solidarity with the captain of the French national team, Kylian Mbappé, while praising the final victory of the English international Harry Kane. He notes that Mbappé's father, Wilfrid Mbappé, also shares Cameroonian roots, which strengthens his personal attachment.

“Popular or unpopular opinion, but for me, Kylian Mbappé is the Ballon d’Or winner this year,” Ngannou said. He added: “All my congratulations to legend Harry Kane for his victory, as well as to all the nominees who entertained us throughout the season!”

Ballon d’Or, Francis Ngannou backs Kylian Mbappé

Even without a major collective title with Real Madrid, the Frenchman finished as top scorer in La Liga, the Champions League and the 2026 World Cup. This performance earned him second place in the overall Ballon d’Or ranking, his best result at the ceremony.

The French, eliminated in the World Cup semi‑final in July by Spain, could not give Mbappé a collective trophy. This defeat highlights the contrast between his individual exploits and the missing collective successes.

Ballon d’Or: less than 41 points separating the Frenchman and the Englishman

Thus, Ngannou's support for both Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé illustrates the duality between popular recognition and personal convictions. The debate over the true Ballon d’Or laureate remains open.