Kylian Mbappé has apologised for "ill-judged" comments about Chinese leader Mao Zedong, which led to him being dropped by several Chinese brands. Mbappé made the remarks on French talk show The Bridge, laughing as a meme showed his face superimposed on an image resembling Mao. The joke stemmed from fans calling him a "dictator" due to his football influence. "My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world," Mbappé said in a statement. Spain's La Liga also apologised, saying it "deeply regrets the offence that Kylian Mbappé's recent comments have caused among Chinese fans."
The controversy stems from China's sensitivity around Mao, revered by the Communist Party despite a rule linked to millions of deaths. Chinese football forum Dongqiudi labelled the comments "inappropriate" and said they "hurt the feelings of Chinese people." As online anger grew, brands including Mengniu and Dongpeng terminated partnerships, stating they have "zero-tolerance" for actions offending national sentiments. State broadcaster CCTV will stop featuring Mbappé content and airing La Liga matches. Real Madrid, one of 20 La Liga clubs and the most decorated team with 36 titles, faces fallout as Mbappé is popular in China with huge endorsements. International figures must show greater respect, Chinese media warned.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing