France captain, Kylian Mbappe, says he has never cut ties with his African roots, explaining that his upbringing was shaped by African culture despite being born and raised in France and representing the country throughout his international career.
The Real Madrid forward, whose father is Cameroonian and whose mother is of Algerian descent, made the comments while speaking to Radio France Internationale (RFI) in an interview published on September 23, 2026.
Mbappé also revealed that he would dedicate the Ballon d’Or to Africa in some way if he wins the award.
“I’ve always had an upbringing steeped in African culture, even though I was born in France and did everything in France,” Mbappé said during the RFI interview.
“I have never cut ties with my roots, my origins. It’s part of the values instilled in you,” the France captain added.
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Mbappé’s connection to Africa has also been reflected in his visits to the continent. In July 2023, the Real Madrid forward travelled to Cameroon, visiting Yaoundé and Douala before travelling to Djebale, the island where his father’s family originates.
The visit gave Mbappé an opportunity to reconnect with his father’s homeland and meet members of his extended family, while he also visited schools supported by his foundation and met Cameroon’s Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute.
Speaking about his relationship with the continent during his RFI interview, Mbappé said: “I went back to Cameroon not long ago.
“I used to go there when I was little; I had an amazing time. Every time I go to Africa, I’m always welcomed so warmly; I feel the love from people.”
The French captain has previously spoken about how his African heritage exists alongside his French identity.
Earlier in 2026, Mbappé said: “I was born in France, I am French, I did everything in France. I have Cameroonian and Algerian origins, but I grew up with French culture.”
Mbappe’s latest comments come as attention turns to the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with Mbappé among the nominees for the men’s award.
His African heritage has added another dimension to his connection with supporters and journalists across the continent, particularly as he competes for the biggest individual prize in football.
Mbappé acknowledged that support during his conversation with RFI. “First off, I thank them for the support over all these years,” the France captain said. “I’ve always felt so loved every time I’ve set foot on the African continent.”
He added, “I think that, having African origins, it’s always a pleasure when people associate me with the Ballon d’Or.”
Mbappé then explained how he would view the award if he were to win it.
“I thank them for everything, and I hope to leave with the Ballon d’Or, and in one way or another, dedicate it to them,” he said.
On the pitch, Mbappé has also put together a strong statistical case for recognition. He finished the 2025-26 LaLiga season as the competition’s leading scorer with 25 goals and ended the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Champions League campaign as the tournament’s top scorer with 15 goals.
UEFA confirmed that his 15 Champions League goals made him the outright leading scorer in the competition during the 2025-26 season.
For Mbappé, however, the Ballon d’Or conversation is now about more than individual numbers.
As he continues to represent France on the international stage and Real Madrid at club level, he is also using the moment to highlight the African heritage that he says has remained part of him throughout his rise to the top of world football.
