Mao Zedong triggers the storm, Kylian Mbappé breaks the silence

French footballer Kylian Mbappé offered an apology on Tuesday after his awkward remarks about Mao Zedong sparked a wave of criticism in China and led to the termination of advertising contracts.

In a statement written in French, English and Mandarin and sent to AFP, the Real Madrid forward said he was “sincerely sorry” and acknowledged that his words had hurt many people.

Termination of Chinese partnerships

Two Chinese companies, Dongpeng and Mengniu, announced on the same Tuesday that they were ending all collaboration with Mbappé, citing the controversy sparked by the meme comparing him to former leader Mao Zedong.

The player explained that the meme, which he often shared with his friends, superimposed his face onto that of the dictator, and that he presented it as a joke without any intention to offend.

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Reaction of LaLiga and Chinese media

LaLiga, via its president Javier Tebas, issued a statement deeply regretting the offense caused to Chinese supporters, stating that the remarks were a personal expression and did not represent the league.

At the same time, Chinese state television suspended the broadcast of LaLiga matches, highlighting the impact of the comment on sporting relations between China and European football.

In the viral video that sparked the controversy, Mbappé was asked about his “favorite meme” and replied that it was an image showing him with Mao’s face, which he found “very funny”.

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The player concluded his message by reaffirming his deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, while expressing his regret for having hurt the Chinese community worldwide.