Thierry Henry forced to explain his jokes from 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony

Henry defended his remarks as Ballon d'Or 2026 host, clarifying jokes about Yamal, Scott, and Kane were not disrespectful.

Thierry Henry responded to criticism on social media following his role as master of ceremonies at the 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony in London on Monday, where he hosted alongside Kate Scott.

Henry faced backlash for several comments during the evening. He addressed the most prominent criticism: his remark to Lamine Yamal after the young player won the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year, asking if that was really the award he wanted while waiting for the Ballon d'Or result. Harry Kane ultimately won the Ballon d'Or, ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Yamal.

"I simply thought it was the third time he won this trophy. I just asked him if that was really the one he wanted, and everyone laughed," Henry explained. "We all know what he wanted. Unfortunately, he didn't get it." He emphasized he is "a big fan" of Yamal and would pay to watch him play. Henry also clarified that a joke about the pronunciation of Brazilian legend Sócrates was coordinated with Scott, who was "in on it." Regarding his tribute to Kane, Henry noted he had previously supported Mbappé as a fellow Frenchman but stressed Kane was a deserving winner who embodies the work ethic Henry has always championed.