Kylian Mbappé has issued a public apology to China and its people. This follows massive commercial backlash over a recent talk show joke. He had referred to former Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a dictator.
Mbappé Acknowledges Mistake
The Real Madrid forward posted a statement on social media on Tuesday. He acknowledged that his remark was ill-judged. He stated he understood it hurt people in China and global Chinese communities. He formally apologised to everyone upset by his words.
Commercial Fallout Escalates
The apology arrived after major Chinese brands terminated their endorsement contracts. Mengniu and Dongpeng both dropped the French international on Monday. Furthermore, state media outlet The Paper reported a broadcast suspension. Chinese public television stopped broadcasting La Liga matches. Advertisements featuring the striker also disappeared from Chinese platforms.
La Liga Enters Damage Control
The Spanish football league quickly entered damage control. La Liga released a statement apologising on behalf of all its clubs. The organisation distanced itself from the player. It clarified that Mbappé made the comments in a personal capacity.
The situation highlights the strict boundaries within the lucrative Chinese sports market. It remains unclear if the apologies will restore the terminated sponsorships.