Paris, France. A public quarrel between Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe and National Rally (RN) chairman Jordan Bardella has resurfaced amid debate over a possible RN victory in France’s 2027 presidential election.
Dispute reflects broader political divide
The clash has been framed as a microcosm of a wider struggle over France’s identity and future ahead of next year’s election, with an anti-immigration nationalist RN candidate described as the favourite.
Contrasting profiles
Mbappe, 27, grew up in a working-class suburb of Paris home to many immigrant families and is associated with a national team often cited as a symbol of diversity. Bardella, 30, is presented as part of the party’s new generation, as RN builds support with pledges to enforce border controls and restructure welfare to prioritise French citizens.
Mbappe raises concerns about RN victory
In a Vanity Fair interview published on Tuesday, Mbappe voiced concern about the consequences of an RN win in 2027. “People sometimes think that because we have money, because we’re famous, these kinds of problems don’t affect us,” Mbappe was quoted as saying. “But they affect me; I know what it means and what consequences it can have for my country when people like them come to power.”
Bardella responds on social media
Bardella responded on X by referencing Mbappe’s departure from Paris St Germain in 2024 and the club’s subsequent Champions League title in 2025. “I know what happens when Kylian Mbappé leaves PSG: the club wins the Champions League! (And maybe soon a second time),” Bardella wrote.
No immediate comment from Mbappe’s side
A spokesperson for Mbappe, who also called RN gains “catastrophic” during the 2024 Euros, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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