Beijing, China – French football superstar Kylian Mbappé has faced extensive criticism and significant anger across China following a controversial remark he made regarding former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. The forward, who plays for Real Madrid and the French national team, referred to Mao Zedong as a ‘Chinese dictator’ during a French podcast interview, which subsequently led to a widespread public outcry.
The incident originated from a now-deleted podcast episode where Mbappé discussed a popular internet meme. This meme featured his face photoshopped onto an image of Mao Zedong, drawing a comparison between his influential stature in football and the authoritative figure. During the discussion, Mbappé reportedly stated, “The meme that made me laugh the most was a video showing a man, I think he was a Chinese dictator.” This comment, intended as part of a lighthearted joke about his own perceived ‘dictatorial’ influence in football, was widely misconstrued and caused immediate offense in China.
The sentiment in China viewed Mbappé’s comments as deeply insulting to the nation’s history and the feelings of its people. Chairman Mao Zedong remains a profoundly important historical figure and icon within the country, and any perceived disrespectful remarks are met with severe disapproval.
In response to the escalating backlash, the 27-year-old striker promptly issued a public apology. In his statement, Mbappé expressed regret, saying, “My comments were not well-thought-out, and now I understand that they have affected many people in China and the Chinese community around the world. I apologize to everyone whose feelings my words have hurt.”
The fallout extended beyond Mbappé himself. Spain’s La Liga, where Mbappé’s club Real Madrid competes, also released an official statement expressing profound regret for the offense caused to Chinese fans by the player’s remarks.
The controversy resulted in severe commercial repercussions for Mbappé. Several major Chinese companies swiftly moved to terminate or suspend their lucrative commercial contracts with the global football icon. Among these were prominent beverage company Dongpeng, dairy giant Mengniu, and Shanghai Milkground, indicating a significant financial impact on the player’s endorsement portfolio.
Furthermore, state-owned television channels and numerous other Chinese media outlets announced a ban on broadcasting Real Madrid’s La Liga matches and any programming associated with Kylian Mbappé. Prior to Mbappé’s public apology, the Chinese Football Association had also publicly condemned his remarks and formally demanded an official apology, highlighting the gravity of the situation within the country’s sports landscape.
