How Fast Is Kylian Mbappe? Comparing France's Speed Star to NFL's Quickest and More

Speed might not be the single most important trait on a soccer field, but it certainly ranks high, especially when many players lack quickness. Countless athletes possess the skill and creativity needed at the World Cup, but very few match the pace of Kylian Mbappe, arguably the fastest player in the sport today.

To echo the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, Mbappe moves so fast he could "turn off the light switch" and beat darkness to his bed. Watching him burst forward, chasing loose balls and driving toward goal, is a thrilling sight. His blazing speed often leaves defenders behind and goalkeepers helpless.

Mbappe's Top Speed Compared to Other Athletes

Among soccer's quickest, Mbappe stands out. He has recorded a top speed of 37.6 km/h (about 23.4 mph) during this year's World Cup, the fastest in the tournament. This speed exceeds that of Achraf Hakimi and Erling Haaland by roughly 2 km/h.

In the 2026 World Cup quarter-final against Morocco, Mbappe's explosive speed was on full display. After a turnover near France's half, he sprinted past defenders, forcing Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui to foul him inside the box, resulting in a penalty kick for France.

PENALTY AWARDED TO FRANCE 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/DLyMFi1mLG— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 9, 2026

How Does Mbappe's Speed Translate to the 40-Yard Dash?

Comparing Mbappe's long-field runs to the 40-yard dash—an event where athletes sprint flat out over a short distance—is tricky. Still, trainer Gareth Sandford analyzed Mbappe’s Champions League 2022-23 season speed and found his maximum sprint velocity at 10.19 m/s, about 2 m/s slower than Usain Bolt’s world record pace.

Sandford noted Mbappe’s speed is more akin to that of 800-meter runners rather than pure 100-meter sprinters. Even so, Mbappe's pace resembles that of NFL player Tyreek Hill, who clocked 23.24 mph in 2017. While Mbappe might not match the 40-yard dash times of John Ross or Xavier Worthy, he likely would perform impressively if given the chance.

Mbappe Among the Fastest Soccer Players Ever

According to Sports Illustrated, Mbappe reached 38 km/h (23.6 mph) in a 2019 match against AS Monaco, marking him as one of soccer's all-time fastest. Sources like Tuko and Zonal Sports highlight this achievement, cementing his reputation.