Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe criticised for reactions to Harry Kane winning Ballon d'Or

Bayern Munich striker Kane edged past Mbappe in a tight vote, with his 73-goals for club and country during 2025/26 ultimately the deciding factor. Kane also won the European Golden Shoe and was named the Striker of the Year, both for the second time.

Social media users quickly analysed footage of the winner being announced for the reaction of different players. Moments before the ceremony began, Mbappe was seen gesturing to be filmed by his entourage, implying that the Frenchman was confident of victory.

Kane was supported by Bayern Munich teammates, Luis Díaz, Dayot Upamecano and Lennart Karl, all who congratulated their star striker after he had offered commiserations to Yamal.

Yamal was criticised by some on social media for not getting up to fully embrace Kane, in contrast to Barcelona and Spain teammate Rodri, who was sat next to the youngster.

The Englishman then went over to Mbappe, who similarly remained seated as Kane embraced him, while Michael Olise - a teammate of both Mbappe and Kane, for France and Bayern Munich respectively - stood up to congratulate the striker.

Fans also joked how Ousmane Dembele, last year’s winner of the award, appeared to stare at Mbappe to see his reaction. Dembele also congratulated Kane, right before the former Spurs man went on stage.

Fresh off the back of scoring two goals for Real Madrid to down Yamal’s Barcelona at the weekend, Mbappe was confirmed as runner-up, with the Spanish winger third.

While Mbappe was able to offer a smirk and glance towards winner Kane, Yamal looked visibly disappointed to miss out on the prestigious award.

Already social media users have started to turn the reactions into memes. During Kane’s acceptance speech, the camera panned back to Yamal, showing the youngster looking away and to the floor.

It was not a wasted trip to England for Yamal, who was named the Men’s Young Talent of the Year. It is the third straight year the teenager has won the award, first receiving the honour in 2024.