Mbappé Apologises After Chinese Brands Drop Him Over Mao Zedong Remark
Kylian Mbappé has found himself in hot water in China after a video of the football star referring to Mao Zedong as a “Chinese dictator” sparked backlash online. The controversy has reportedly cost the Real Madrid forward several sponsorship deals.
The video featured Mbappé discussing a popular internet meme that edits his face onto Mao’s body. But the remark quickly became controversial in China, where the former leader remains a politically sensitive figure.
Three Chinese companies — Dongpeng, Mengniu and Milkground — subsequently ended their partnerships with the French footballer. Spanish La Liga broadcasts were also suspended, while advertisements featuring Mbappé were removed.
As the backlash grew, Mbappé apologised on October 27, saying he had not intended to offend the Chinese people.
“I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and I am sincerely sorry,” he said.
The apology Kylian Mbappé posted on all his social media.The incident is another reminder of how quickly a celebrity’s comments can turn into a commercial crisis, particularly in a market as important as China.
