Riyad Mahrez has capped off an unforgettable 2016 by being named the BBC African Footballer of the Year.
The award, one of the most prestigious in African footballer, was won by Mahrez for the first time, after a public vote. He is the first Algerian to win the award.
Mahrez's win came by public vote, He defeated Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Andre Ayew, Sadio Mane and Yaya Toure to the award.
Big honor to win BBC African player of the year , thanks to everyone who voted for me ðŸ‘👠pic.twitter.com/6KWhHmRKP1
— Riyad Mahrez (@Mahrez22) December 12, 2016
Speaking to BBC after winning the award, Mahrez thanked his fans for the win.
"It's always good to receive awards and for African players it's a huge honour. To all the fans, thank you very much... Also I want to thank the Algeria fans and dedicate this to them as well and for my family."
Monday was an eventful day for the 25-year-old. He finished 7th in the Ballon d'Or nominations and was the highest ranked African player, as voted by France Football.
Mahrez follows the likes of Aubameyang, Ayew, Toure, Michael Essien and Jay-Jay Okacha as winners of the award.
Final ranking of Ballon d'Or France Football 2016 :
7th
RIYAD MAHREZ#ballondor pic.twitter.com/uiQcTW2ckz
— France Football (@francefootball) December 12, 2016
