Thierry Henry defends Ballon d'Or hosting after awkward moments with Kate Scott and Lamine Yamal
Thierry Henry has released a video defending his hosting of the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony in London, addressing criticism over his interactions with Kate Scott, Lamine Yamal, and winner Harry Kane. The former Arsenal star urged the public to stop creating "unnecessary controversy" over the event. Henry clarified that his pronunciation correction of Kate Scott was a pre-arranged joke, insisting she was "in on the joke" and that he would never disrespect her. He also explained his question to Yamal about wanting the Ballon d'Or was meant as lighthearted humor, not a slight on the Kopa Trophy win. Regarding his public preference for French players Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, Henry stated he was simply supporting his countrymen but congratulated Kane as a "worthy winner." The ceremony marked Kane's first Ballon d'Or win at age 33.