Kylian Mbappe has apologised over his comments about a Mao Zedong meme.
Three Chinese companies end partnerships with Kylian Mbappe after his comments about a Mao Zedong meme draw criticism.
Kylian Mbappe apologises after remarks about a meme depicting him as Mao Zedong triggered criticism in China. At least three companies have ended commercial partnerships with the Real Madrid forward following the controversy.
The comments emerged in a video from a French podcast that has since been removed. In the clip, Mbappe discussed some of his favourite internet memes, including an altered image featuring the Chinese leader.
Mbappe apologises over meme comments
While describing the image, Mbappe referred to the person as someone he believed was a Chinese dictator. The video then showed an image with the footballer’s face superimposed on Mao’s.
However, Mbappe did not explicitly identify Mao by name during his remarks. Mao founded the People’s Republic of China in 1949 and led it until his death in 1976. He remains a politically sensitive historical figure in China.
In his subsequent apology, Mbappe acknowledged that he had used poor judgement. He also recognised that his comments had hurt people in China and Chinese communities elsewhere.
The forward expressed regret and said he had not intended to offend Chinese people. He also affirmed his respect for China and its history.
Companies end commercial partnerships
The backlash extended to Mbappe’s sponsorship relationships, with three Chinese businesses ending their partnerships with him. They include beverage maker Dongpeng, dairy company Mengniu and cheese producer Shanghai Milkground Food Tech.
Meanwhile, China Media Group reportedly suspended broadcasts of Spanish La Liga matches and events involving Mbappe. Advertisements featuring the player were also removed, while the Chinese Football Association demanded a formal public apology.
Real Madrid forward’s career
The 27-year-old first gained prominence at AS Monaco before joining Paris Saint-Germain. He became PSG’s all-time leading goalscorer and then moved to Real Madrid in 2024.
At international level, Mbappe helped France claim the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He also scored a hat-trick against Argentina in the 2022 final, although France lost on penalties.
