French football star Kylian Mbappe has accepted a challenge from triple Olympics champion and men’s 100m world record holder Usain Bolt to race for charity.
Bolt. 37, who retired from track and field after the Rio 2016 Olympic Games remains the world fastest man with his 9.58seconds record unchallenged. Running against Mbappe who is regarded as the fastest footballer on the planet with a theoretical time of 10.09 would be an interesting prospect in the ‘Victory Mode’ event organised by Mbappe’s foundation and Nike.
“Knowing that I inspire someone like that is really gratifying,” said Mbappe.
“I think he inspired everyone a little bit too and every one of you in this room has gotten up in the middle of the night to watch one of his races. It’s mutual! But I started admiring him first.”
Mbappe agrees that he has no chance against the Jamaican sprint legend.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron is hopeful that Mbappe will play for the French team at the Olympics. FIFA only allows U-23 and two overage players for the tournament.
Mbappe,25, said he is focused on his club career.
“I met Mbappe’s father last week and asked him the question. He told me: ‘He wants to play them’ (the Olympics),” the French president noted.
Mbappe recently stated that “my position has not changed, but the truth is that I am not thinking about the Olympics. I’m focused on the present and the present is now about PSG.”
Mbappe and Real Madrid have reportedly a closed and signed agreement whereby from July 1 the French striker will become a brand new player of the white team.
