According to a report by Daily Mail on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé have faced criticism over claims that they failed to stand up and greet Harry Kane during the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in London.

The incident reportedly took place at the London Palladium, where several of football’s biggest stars gathered to celebrate the season’s outstanding performers. Kane eventually won the prestigious award, but the reactions of the two French internationals attracted attention among supporters.

Footage from the event appeared to show Kane approaching Mbappé and Dembélé to exchange greetings while both players remained seated. Mbappé also appeared not to stand when the Bayern Munich striker was announced as the winner.

Their reactions sparked debate over whether they had shown adequate respect to Kane following his achievement. However, it remains unclear what motivated their behaviour, and the available footage does not prove that either player deliberately intended to disrespect the England captain.

Kane’s triumph marked a significant milestone in his career, further cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s leading strikers through his performances for Bayern Munich.

The former Tottenham Hotspur forward reportedly finished fewer than 41 points ahead of Mbappé in the final voting, demonstrating how closely contested the award was. His victory also ended England’s 25-year wait for another Ballon d’Or winner, with Michael Owen having been the last English player to receive the honour in 2001.

Before the ceremony, Mbappé had expressed confidence in his position among the world’s best footballers, suggesting that he considered himself the finest player in the game while acknowledging that others might hold different opinions.

Meanwhile, Dembélé attended the event as the defending champion after winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or. However, the Paris Saint-Germain forward finished seventh in the 2026 rankings.

He placed behind Kane, Mbappé, Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, Rodri, Lionel Messi and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

The reported incident has reignited discussions about sportsmanship and the importance of acknowledging fellow professionals when they receive major individual honours. Some supporters argue that standing to congratulate a winner is a basic gesture of respect, particularly at an event celebrating exceptional performances.

Nevertheless, drawing conclusions about the players’ intentions without further evidence would be premature.

French broadcaster RMC also reportedly discussed difficulties surrounding the ceremony, including delays and complaints about arrangements involving Dembélé. However, there is no confirmed evidence that these issues influenced his reaction to Kane.

Despite the controversy, Kane received congratulations from several prominent figures in football following his historic achievement.

England midfielder Jude Bellingham was among those who celebrated the striker’s success. The Real Madrid star, who plays alongside Mbappé at club level, shared a message on Instagram that read: “Congratulations skip!” accompanied by a heart and goat emoji.

During his acceptance speech, Kane expressed gratitude to his family, his wife Kate Goodland, his former coaches and Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany for their support throughout his career.

The England captain later celebrated his success with family members and friends at an after-party in London before turning his attention back to his club commitments.

Although the reactions of Mbappé and Dembélé have generated considerable discussion, Kane’s historic victory remains the ceremony’s main highlight. His achievement has secured his place in English football history, while the controversy has renewed debate about respect and sportsmanship among the game’s biggest stars.