Has Kylian Mbappe won 2026 Ballon d'Or? Fan theory explained

Fans speculate Mbappe has won the 2026 Ballon d'Or after a viral video from Sunday's Clasico, though the exchange remains ambiguous.

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe has become a serious contender for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, with his odds shortening from 16/1 to as short as 2/1 ahead of tonight's London ceremony. He now rivals Harry Kane as the favourite to win the award.

Fans online believe Mbappe may have inadvertently confirmed his victory after footage from Sunday's Clasico went viral on social media. In the clip, captured by DAZN, Mbappe appears to be speaking with close friend Redouane Bougheraba after scoring twice in Real Madrid's win over Barcelona. Some viewers interpret Bougheraba as asking "Tomorrow you've got it?" with Mbappe responding with a large grin and a nod. However, other interpretations suggest the exchange was simply about Mbappe's attendance at the ceremony, with Bougheraba asking "Tomorrow, you will be there?" and Mbappe confirming he would attend.

Mbappe's decision to travel to London for the ceremony has also fuelled speculation, particularly given Real Madrid's decision to withdraw entirely from the 2024 ceremony when Vinicius Jr learned he would not win ahead of Rodri.