At 27 years old, Kylian Mbappé has added something new to his long list of achievements — a driver’s license.
The French superstar, who has lifted league titles, broken scoring records, and captained his national team, has finally passed his driving test after years of relying on private chauffeurs. For most professional footballers of his stature, being driven around is simply part of the lifestyle. But now, Mbappé can personally take the wheel and drive himself to Real Madrid’s training complex at Valdebebas.
While the milestone may seem ordinary for many, it quickly became a talking point in Spain. Spanish outlet Marca highlighted not just the fact that Mbappé earned his license, but the amusing twist behind the story.
According to reports, Mbappé completed his driving lessons in Madrid under the guidance of an instructor who happens to be a devoted Atlético de Madrid supporter. That detail alone was enough to spark plenty of banter in the Spanish capital, where the rivalry between Real Madrid and Atlético runs deep
The irony of Real Madrid’s newest Galáctico learning to drive from someone loyal to their city rivals did not go unnoticed. Spanish media leaned into the humorous angle, noting how football rivalries often spill beyond the pitch — but in this case, they ended up in the passenger seat of a learner’s car.
Adding even more intrigue, Marca revealed that the same instructor has previously helped several Atlético players secure their own driver’s licenses. In other words, Mbappé was learning the rules of the road from someone accustomed to coaching “Los Colchoneros.”
It’s a light-hearted story, but one that reflects Mbappé’s transition into a new chapter of his career. After years at Paris Saint-Germain, the Bondy-born forward has embraced life in Madrid, adjusting not just to a new club but also to a new culture and daily routine. Passing his driving test symbolizes a degree of independence and normalcy amid the extraordinary life of a global football icon.
For many fans, the news was both surprising and relatable. In an era where elite athletes often appear larger than life, learning that Mbappé had not yet obtained his license at 27 humanizes him. Despite his immense wealth and global fame, he had postponed a simple rite of passage that millions complete in their late teens.
The development also underlines how professional footballers live highly structured lives. Between training sessions, matches, sponsorship commitments, and international duty, even routine tasks like driving lessons can be delayed for years. With his schedule now more settled in Spain, Mbappé evidently decided it was time to tick that box.
Social media quickly reacted with jokes about whether his instructor tried to convert him to Atlético during the lessons, or if Mbappé insisted on parking only in white-striped spaces. The playful rivalry between Madrid’s two giants once again proved that football culture extends far beyond matchday.
Ultimately, the story is a refreshing break from transfer sagas, injury reports, and tactical debates. It offers a glimpse into the everyday side of one of football’s biggest stars — a reminder that even world champions must learn how to parallel park.
Now officially licensed, Mbappé can cruise through Madrid on his own terms. And if he ever needs directions, one can only hope his Atlético-supporting instructor gave him the best possible guidance — at least when it comes to the road.