Real Madrid has reportedly initiated a comprehensive strategy aimed at securing the prestigious Ballon d’Or award for their new star forward, Kylian Mbappé, this year. The French international is considered one of the leading contenders for football’s highest individual honour, and the Spanish giants are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to bolster his chances.

According to reports from L’Équipe, reported by Sportbible, Real Madrid’s plan involves a concerted effort to provide Mbappé with significant public exposure and unwavering backing in the crucial weeks leading up to the Ballon d’Or ceremony. This campaign is expected to feature prominent club legends repeatedly articulating the case for why Mbappé is the most deserving recipient of the award.

A familiar strategy for a new star

This proactive approach mirrors a successful campaign undertaken by Real Madrid in 2013 for Cristiano Ronaldo. That year, a formidable lineup of club icons publicly championed Ronaldo’s candidacy, including Alfredo Di Stéfano, Emilio Butragueño, then-coach Carlo Ancelotti, Iker Casillas, and Sergio Ramos. Their collective support proved effective, as Ronaldo ultimately clinched the Ballon d’Or, triumphing over formidable rivals Franck Ribéry and Arjen Robben.

The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually by France Football magazine, recognises the player deemed the best in the world over a single full season. The winner is determined through a meticulous voting system involving journalists from around the globe.

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The contenders and the criteria

While Real Madrid is pushing hard for Mbappé, the competition remains fierce. Bookmakers’ latest odds currently place Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane as the favourite, with Barcelona’s emerging talent Lamine Yamal in second place, and Mbappé positioned third. Kane’s individual performance in the 2025-26 season has been particularly notable:

• Scored 61 club goals

• Helped Bayern Munich win the league title

• Contributed to Bayern Munich’s German Cup victory

The voting process for the Ballon d’Or begins with an initial 30-player shortlist compiled by France Football and L’Équipe. Subsequently, one journalist from each of the top 100 FIFA-ranked nations casts their vote for their top 10 players. Points are awarded based on these rankings, with a tie-breaker rule favouring the player with the most first-place votes.

Journalists are instructed to consider three key factors when casting their ballots:

• Individual performances

• Team performances and achievements

• Fair play

Real Madrid clearly believes that a strong narrative, coupled with public endorsement from their legendary figures, can sway opinion and highlight Mbappé’s individual brilliance and contributions, ultimately securing him the coveted golden ball.

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