French soccer superstar Kylian Mbappé brought the magic of Christmas to life in a touching display of generosity back in 2019, dressing up as Santa Claus to surprise children from local refugee centers in Paris. The event, organized in collaboration with the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Foundation, saw the young athlete donning the iconic red suit, white beard, and jolly hat to distribute gifts and spread holiday cheer among kids facing challenging circumstances. Photos and videos from the occasion resurfaced in viral posts around Christmas 2025, reminding fans of Mbappé’s off-field heroism and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth.

At just 20 years old during the original event, Mbappé was already a global icon, fresh off his World Cup triumph with France in 2018. Yet, he chose to use his platform for philanthropy, partnering with the PSG Foundation—a charitable arm of his then-club that focuses on education, health, and social inclusion for disadvantaged children. The surprise visit took place at refugee shelters in the Paris area, where many families had fled conflict zones in search of safety. Mbappé, whose own parents hail from Cameroon and Algeria, has often spoken about his multicultural roots and the importance of giving back. “It’s about bringing smiles and hope,” he shared in interviews around the time, emphasizing how such acts remind him of his humble beginnings in Bondy, a suburb of Paris.

Dressed head-to-toe as Père Noël (France’s Santa), Mbappé arrived with sacks brimming with toys, books, and essentials. The children’s reactions were priceless—wide-eyed wonder turning into gleeful laughter as they unwrapped presents and posed for photos with the disguised star. One viral clip shows a young boy hesitantly approaching Santa, only to erupt in joy upon receiving a soccer ball, Mbappé’s subtle nod to his passion. Volunteers at the centers noted how the visit boosted morale, providing a rare moment of normalcy for kids dealing with displacement and uncertainty. In France, where refugee integration remains a hot-button issue, Mbappé’s gesture highlighted the power of sports figures in bridging divides and fostering community support.

Mbappé’s charitable efforts extend far beyond this single event. Through his foundation, Inspired by KM, launched in 2020, he supports 98 children from diverse backgrounds with education and life skills programs. His move to Real Madrid in 2024 hasn’t slowed his philanthropy; in 2025, he donated millions to disaster relief following floods in Europe. Globally, athletes like Mbappé are increasingly using their influence for social good, with initiatives addressing everything from poverty to mental health. In Paris, refugee centers report a rise in community involvement post such high-profile visits, encouraging donations and volunteerism.

The resurgence of these images in December 2025, shared widely on platforms like Instagram and X, underscores Mbappé’s enduring appeal. Fans praised his humility, with comments flooding in about how he’s not just a goal-scoring machine but a role model. At 27 now, Mbappé continues to dominate on the pitch, leading Real Madrid to Champions League glory in 2025, but it’s moments like this that cement his legacy off it. As the world grapples with migration crises, his Santa stint serves as a beacon of kindness, proving that even superstars can play Santa to light up young lives.