Mbappe apologises over Mao Zedong remarks after losing Chinese sponsors

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has apologised after several major Chinese companies terminated sponsorship agreements with him over a controversial joke about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

According to Channels Television, the controversy followed a viral video showing Mbappe apparently describing Mao as a Chinese dictator while discussing an internet meme.

The video’s authenticity has not been independently verified by AFP.

“My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world. I apologise to everyone my words have upset,” Mbappe said.

Chinese beverage company Dongpeng announced the termination of its partnership with the French international, while dairy companies Mengniu and Milkground also severed ties.

Spain’s La Liga apologised over the controversy, distancing itself from Mbappe’s remarks.

Chinese state media also reported that broadcaster CCTV had suspended La Liga broadcasts, although matches remained listed on its online schedule.

The incident has sparked widespread criticism across Chinese social media platforms.