Spanish football club Real Madrid issued an apology to the Chinese people on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, following a controversy involving French forward Kylian Mbappé and his comments about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong.
Mbappé faced criticism after referring to Mao as a dictator, triggering a backlash in China. The controversy also affected his commercial partnerships, with several Chinese companies ending their cooperation with the football star.
On Tuesday, October 27, brands including dairy companies Mengniu and Shanghai Milkground Food Tech, along with beverage company Eastroc Beverage, announced that they were ending their partnerships with Mbappé, according to Reuters.
Mbappé had also apologised for his remarks.
Responding to the controversy, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing took the apology seriously.
The incident highlights the potential impact of public comments by internationally recognised athletes, particularly in markets where historical and political figures remain sensitive subjects.
Mbappé has a significant global profile through his football career and commercial endorsements. The response from Chinese brands demonstrates how controversies involving public figures can affect business relationships and brand partnerships.
The situation has drawn attention beyond football, bringing together issues of public statements, cultural sensitivities and international commercial relations.
0 comments
No comments yet. Yours would be the first.