French football star Kylian Mbappé has sparked controversy in China after comments about a viral meme depicting him as former Chinese leader Mao Zedong prompted apologies from the player, Real Madrid and La Liga.
Mbappé, who plays for Real Madrid, one of Spain’s leading football clubs, apologised on October 27, describing his remark as ill-judged. La Liga, Spain’s top professional football league, and Real Madrid also expressed regret and reaffirmed their respect for Chinese fans.
The controversy has reportedly led Chinese brands Dongpeng, Mengniu and Milkground to end their sponsorship agreements with Mbappé. China Media Group also suspended broadcasts of Spanish league matches, raising concerns over the financial impact on Spanish football.
China’s Foreign Ministry said it took Mbappé’s apology seriously, as the incident continues to strain relations between Spanish football and its Chinese audience.
