​Michael Olise chose to represent France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup because of his mother’s French roots. His father, Vincent Olise, is a former Nigerian cricket star, and the family also includes Mina Olise, Michael’s mother. The Olise family has a footballing connection beyond Michael, as Vincent and Mina have another son, Richard Olise, who is also pursuing a career in soccer. Michael’s decision to honor his parents at the 2026 World Cup is a reflection of his deep ties to his family’s backgrounds.
Before the World Cup, Michael spoke about his privileged, multi-national heritage. He told FC Bayern München in December 2024 that he felt “very lucky” to come from such a diverse background. He explained, “Nationality says where you come from. And I actually come from four countries: France, Algeria, Nigeria and Great Britain. I feel each individual part in me, I’ve developed attachments in all my countries.” This multifaceted background played a significant role in his international football choices.
So, who are Michael Olise’s parents? Here is what is publicly known about Vincent and Mina Olise. The couple, pictured with their son at the 34th UNFP Football Awards in 2026, has been a constant presence in Michael’s life as he navigated his professional career.
Mina Olise’s French roots were particularly influential in shaping Michael’s international eligibility for the 2026 World Cup. The connection to France helped inspire his decision to represent the nation at the tournament. After joining France’s national team in 2024, Michael spoke about his choice. He told reporters at a press conference, via Nigeria’s Daily Post, that his mother’s origin mattered deeply: “My mother is from France. When I was little, I [went to France]. I had this connection with France. I’m proud to be [in France].”
Although he chose France for the World Cup, Michael’s upbringing was shaped by all four nationalities. In his own words, he grew up in London with regular visits to Algeria, Nigeria, and France. He explained to FC Bayern München, “My dad always spoke English with me at home, my mum French — and I always answered both in English. I feel very comfortable with French too.” This blend of cultures enriched his personal and athletic development, giving him a broad sense of belonging across several nations.
The athletic lineage in the Olise family extends to Vincent as well. Michael’s father played cricket for Nigeria from 1983 to 1990, a career that spanned over two decades and included stints as an opening batsman and a specialist fielder. The Nigeria Cricket Federation notes Vincent’s achievements, and by 2020 he held the joint record of ten wickets in a single innings. This sporting pedigree hints at the athletic environment that helped shape Michael’s development.
Michael was born on December 12, 2001. He and Mina welcomed their second child, Richard Olise, not long after his birth. Richard also pursues soccer and had a stint with Chelsea FC before a recent release, according to The Mirror. The brothers share a close bond and a shared passion for football, even as they navigate different paths within the sport. Michael has described their relationship in more personal terms, saying, “We never talk about football, to be honest. We are both in it so much. We talk about life.” He added that setbacks in life should be treated as lessons, a mindset that has likely aided him as his career has progressed.
In sum, Michael Olise’s path to representing France at the World Cup is rooted in a rich, multicultural upbringing and a family deeply connected to sport. His father’s Nigerian cricket career and his mother’s French roots provided the dual influences that shaped his identity as a player. His broader family, including his brother Richard, further illustrates the strong sporting tradition that surrounds him, a tradition that Michael continues to honor in the 2026 World Cup.