Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé faced backlash in China over a viral meme likening him to Mao Zedong. The incident led to the cancellation of three major sponsorships. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV suspended La Liga broadcasts featuring Mbappé. Three companies reportedly ended deals with the player.
Mbappé issued an apology for the remarks. The joke, which involved a meme, caused public outrage in China. The backlash affected his promotional opportunities. The Chinese government rejected the apology, calling the remarks “outrageous.”
The controversy highlights the sensitivity of political symbols in China. Mbappé’s comments sparked a diplomatic response. The incident underscores the risks of crossing cultural and political boundaries. The player’s social media accounts were blocked in China. The situation reflects broader tensions around international sports figures and national values.
