Kylian Mbappe has issued an apology on social media after comments about a meme depicting him as former Chinese leader Mao Zedong sparked a backlash in China and led to the loss of sponsorship deals.
The Real Madrid forward acknowledged that his remarks had caused offence, describing the comment as “ill-judged” and expressing respect for Chinese people and their history.
The controversy followed the circulation of a clip linked to French online show The Bridge, in which Mbappe discussed his favourite meme of himself.
In the footage, the France captain referred to an edited image featuring his face on the body of someone he described as a Chinese dictator. The image appeared to depict Mao, the founding leader of the People’s Republic of China.
Mbappe also said he regularly used the meme when interacting with friends online.
According to Reuters, Mengniu, Shanghai Milkground and Eastroc Beverage, also known as Dongpeng, ended their cooperation with Mbappe following the backlash.
The comments drew criticism on Chinese social media, where some users called for a boycott of the forward.
Mao remains a politically sensitive figure in China, and many regard him as a symbol of the country’s founding. The reference prompted accusations that Mbappe had disrespected China and its people.
China’s foreign ministry also responded to the controversy, saying words and actions that hurt Chinese people’s feelings would face opposition across society.
In a statement shared on his social media page on Tuesday, October 27, Mbappe apologised to those offended by his remarks.
He acknowledged that the comment had hurt people in China and Chinese communities worldwide, while explaining that this had not been his intention.
The forward also expressed his respect for Chinese people and their history as he sought to address the growing controversy.
This dispute has also affected LaLiga; there have been reports of consequences for its coverage in China.
According to local media reports cited by Reuters, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV halted broadcasts of matches and events involving LaLiga and Mbappe.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas also issued an apology, expressing regret over the offence caused and saying the league was working with its Chinese partners to resolve the situation.
