Mbappé loses sponsorships over Mao Zedong remarks

A video in which Kylian Mbappé made jokes about Mao Zedong sparked controversy in China. The French striker described the former Chinese leader as a dictator in the footage. The publication quickly provoked uproar, drawing attention from Chinese authorities and the public.

The commercial consequences were immediate. According to RMC Sport, two Chinese companies terminated their partnerships with the player following the video's release. Several other brands also distanced themselves and removed Mbappé-related content from their platforms.

The controversy extended beyond the player himself. La Liga, the Spanish championship, apologized to China in an official statement, expressing regret over the remarks. Chinese state television announced on Monday morning that it would stop broadcasting matches from the Spanish championship.

Mbappé responded quickly by issuing a statement the next day. The Real Madrid striker apologized via social media, saying he was genuinely sorry and that his words were ill-advised and caused no harm intentionally.

Despite the apology, the controversy persisted on Chinese social media. On Wednesday, criticism of Mbappé continued. According to multiple sources, his remarks were described as hurtful and the dispute continued to generate negative online reactions.

China responded officially through its Foreign Ministry. The spokesman indicated on Wednesday that the government took Mbappé's apology seriously, marking a possible easing of tensions following the initial diplomatic incident.