Spanish football giants Real Madrid have issued a public apology to China following controversial remarks by French superstar Kylian Mbappé about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, which triggered widespread criticism and threatened the club’s commercial relationships in the country.
The apology, released on Wednesday, came a day after Mbappé expressed regret over his comments, acknowledging that his words had offended people in China and Chinese communities around the world.
In its statement, Real Madrid said it regretted any offence caused by the forward’s remarks and reaffirmed its respect for China, its history, culture and citizens, including the millions of Chinese supporters who follow the club.
The controversy began after a video from an interview with French programme The Bridge circulated online. During the conversation, Mbappé discussed an internet meme featuring his face superimposed on an image of a historical figure, whom he described as a Chinese dictator. The remark was understood to refer to Mao Zedong, who led China from 1949 until his death in 1976.
The comments provoked anger on Chinese social media, where discussion of Mao remains highly sensitive. Mbappé subsequently issued an apology in French, Chinese and English, describing his remark as ill-judged and saying he had not intended to hurt anyone.
The backlash has already affected the footballer’s commercial relationships. Chinese companies, including beverage producer Dongpeng and dairy businesses Mengniu and Shanghai Milkground, announced that they were ending their partnerships with the Real Madrid forward.
China’s state broadcaster also suspended broadcasts of Spanish La Liga matches amid the controversy, raising concerns about the potential financial consequences for the league and its clubs.
La Liga president Javier Tebas has also apologized and engaged with Chinese officials in an effort to ease tensions and protect the league’s relationship with its Chinese audience.
China’s Foreign Ministry said it took Mbappé’s apology seriously, although it remains unclear whether the statements will be sufficient to restore the partnerships and broadcasting arrangements affected by the incident.
The episode highlights the commercial and reputational risks international sports stars and organizations face when remarks about politically and culturally sensitive subjects provoke a backlash in major markets.
For Real Madrid, the priority will be to contain the fallout, maintain its relationship with Chinese supporters and limit potential damage to its commercial interests.
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