Kylian Mbappe kidnap plot: French president Macron reacts after suspect arrested

In France, the shocking plot regarding the kidnapping of French footballer Kylian Mbappe unfolded on Thursday.

According to an investigation published by Le Parisien, the Real Madrid forward was allegedly at the center of target by a group suspected of planning kidnappings and attacks against high-profile individuals.

The authorities arrested Clement L, an 18-year-old, on Wednesday and charged him alongside an accomplice on August 21 in Nanterre for organized robbery. As per investigators, the group is linked to multiple home invasions and kidnappings carried out between April and August 2026.

As a part of key evidence, the law enforcement authorities seized two mobile phones from prison used by the suspect. A recovered list of 26 potential targets included business figures, a music industry personality/rapper, and football star Kylian Mbappé.

But there is no confirmation about whether the plan targeting Mbappe was actually carried out or not.

Soon after the arrest of a suspect with malicious intention of targeting Mbappe, the French President Emmanuel Macron responded to the plot.

Taking to X, Macron spoke out, “Attempt to KIDNAP Kylian Mbappé? NO ONE WILL TOUCH KYLIAN. He has worn the France jersey. He is a NATIONAL TREASURE.”

The case underscores security worries for elite athletes as the probe continues. Kylian Mbappe is one of the most prolific football players of his generation, winning FIFA in 2018, UEFA Nations League in 2021 and UEFA European Under-19 Championship.