Mbappé apologises to Chinese people after Mao Zedong controversy sparks backlash

mbappé issues emotional apology after mao zedong remarks spark major controversy in china

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 28 OCTOBER 2026 — Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé has issued a public apology after comments about a viral internet meme apparently referencing former Chinese leader Mao Zedong triggered widespread backlash in China, putting the French forward’s commercial relationships and international reputation under pressure.

The France captain acknowledged that his remarks were ill-judged and had hurt people in China and Chinese communities around the world. In a statement published in French, Chinese and English, Mbappé expressed regret and reaffirmed his respect for the Chinese people and their history.

The controversy erupted after a video circulated online showing Mbappé discussing an internet meme featuring his face digitally superimposed on the body of a man he described as a Chinese dictator. The image appeared to depict Mao, the founder of the People’s Republic of China, who led the country from 1949 until his death in 1976.

Although the discussion appeared to centre on internet humour, the reference quickly attracted criticism because Mao remains a politically sensitive historical figure in China. The video’s authenticity could not immediately be independently verified by AFP Fact Check, according to reports published when the controversy emerged.

The fallout has extended beyond social media criticism, with three Chinese companies reportedly ending their commercial partnerships with Mbappé.

Beverage company Dongpeng, dairy producer Mengniu and Milkground announced that they were terminating their cooperation with the footballer following the controversy. Their decisions underline the commercial risks international sporting figures can face when their public remarks offend audiences in important markets.

The developments have placed the dispute beyond the boundaries of an ordinary celebrity controversy, with potential consequences for the league’s relationship with Chinese audiences and commercial partners.

La Liga has expressed regret over the offence caused by the remarks while emphasising that Mbappé was speaking in his personal capacity. The league has also sought to address concerns surrounding the incident.

Mbappé’s public statement represents an attempt to calm the situation, but the immediate consequences suggest that repairing the damage could take time.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday that Beijing took the footballer’s apology seriously. However, that response does not automatically mean that suspended broadcasts or terminated sponsorship agreements will be restored.

For the Real Madrid forward, the episode serves as a reminder that comments made in informal conversations can have consequences far beyond the original setting.

As reactions continue, the key question remains whether Mbappé’s expression of regret will help rebuild trust with Chinese supporters and businesses or whether the controversy will leave a lasting mark on his global image.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2115374827284369651

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