Didier Drogba has questioned whether Harry Kane was the clear winner of the Ballon d’Or 2026 after Kylian Mbappe finished just 28 points behind the England striker.
Kane claimed the prestigious individual award, but the narrow margin has kept the result under scrutiny. Drogba, the former Cote d’Ivoire international and Chelsea legend, believes Mbappe had a strong case to win the trophy for a second time.
The France forward finished second in the voting after a notable season with Real Madrid. Drogba highlighted Mbappe’s performances and questioned which factors ultimately allowed Kane to finish ahead of him.
Speaking to Le Parisien, Drogba said the gap between the two players was particularly small. His assessment suggested that Mbappe’s contribution for Real Madrid could have been enough to secure another Ballon d’Or.
Mbappe remains one of the most decisive players of his generation and is expected to remain among the leading contenders for future individual honours. Drogba also believes the forward could have an opportunity to respond at the next World Cup if France succeed with the national team.
Drogba also raised the possibility that Mbappe’s character may have affected how some voters and members of the public view him. The former Cote d’Ivoire player pointed to the France international’s direct manner and willingness to express his opinions.
In Drogba’s view, players who speak openly can sometimes attract more criticism, which may influence perceptions of them during award voting. That factor, he suggested, could have contributed to the debate surrounding Mbappe’s second-place finish.
The Ballon d’Or 2026 result continues to divide opinion, with Kane recognised as the winner but Mbappe’s narrow defeat leaving the outcome open to discussion. The France forward may have another chance to strengthen his claim for the award at the next World Cup.
