Kylian Mbappé has lost the 2026 Ballon d'Or to England’s Harry Kane, marking the first time an English player has won the award in 25 years. The French forward, who had been heavily favored, was beaten by Kane, who also outperformed Lamine Yamal in the voting.
Mbappé’s defeat came just hours after Chinese state broadcaster CCTV suspended its coverage of La Liga, amid backlash following his controversial remarks about China. Two major Chinese companies, including a state-backed firm, terminated their sponsorship agreements with Mbappé after he posted a video online that included a reference to Mao Zedong. The video sparked outrage in China, leading to the suspension of coverage and the loss of commercial deals.
This follows a series of controversies surrounding Mbappé’s public comments, which have drawn criticism from both fans and media outlets. The incident highlights the growing sensitivity around political and historical references in international sports, particularly in China. The fallout has also affected Mbappé’s global brand presence, with several sponsors withdrawing support.
The Ballon d'Or, awarded by France Football, is one of the most prestigious honors in football. Kane’s victory marks a significant shift in the award’s history, reflecting changing dynamics in global football. Mbappé’s loss, combined with the commercial repercussions, underscores the increasing influence of political and cultural factors in sports.
