2026 Ballon d'Or: Thierry Henry criticised for his performance

On Monday evening, Thierry Henry co-hosted the Ballon d'Or ceremony alongside Kate Scott. The Frenchman's performance drew criticism on social media.

Yesterday, Thierry Henry thought he could rely on his humour and experience to host the 70th Ballon d’Or ceremony. But at the London Palladium, the former Arsenal striker found himself at the centre of several controversies following his exchanges with Kate Scott and Lamine Yamal.

The presentation of the Kopa Trophy to Lamine Yamal commented on

For the third consecutive year, Lamine Yamal used his speech to say that his teammate Pau Cubarsí deserved the award more. Thierry Henry then asked him a pointed question: was this really the trophy he wanted to win that evening?

The question prompted laughter in the room, but also mixed reactions on social media. Some internet users criticised the Frenchman for putting the young Spaniard in an uncomfortable position, even though he was in contention for the Ballon d'Or.

Thierry Henry was also criticised for an exchange with his co-host Kate Scott. During the announcement of the Sócrates Award, which recognises humanitarian commitment, the French legend corrected the journalist on the pronunciation of the award's name, referring to the Greek philosopher.

Read also: 2026 Ballon d'Or: here are all the issues that marked the 70th ceremony

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.