Kylian Mbappe has issued a formal apology after the French football star and Real Madrid forward found himself dropped by major Chinese brands due to a viral video. In the controversial footage circulating online, the player appeared to make lighthearted remarks involving Mao Zedong, joking about an internet meme that superimposed his face onto the historical figure. This incident quickly triggered widespread commercial consequences in Asia.
Sponsorship Deals Terminated by Major Brands
Following the rapid spread of the video across digital platforms, prominent Chinese commercial partners swiftly distanced themselves from the athlete. Companies including Dongpeng and Mengniu officially ended their endorsement deals with the French forward. The swift commercial fallout highlights the extreme sensitivity surrounding cultural and historical figures in the region, impacting the global image of high-profile athletes.
Broader Repercussions for Spanish Football
The controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappe extended beyond personal sponsorship losses into broader broadcasting landscapes. According to reports from the state-run Chinese digital newspaper The Paper, public television authorities decided to suspend the local broadcasts of matches from La Liga. This decision directly affects how fans in the country consume Spanish league fixtures featuring the prominent club.
Next Steps and Future Fixtures
As the player seeks to mend relations and put the controversy behind him, attention returns to the pitch. The French forward prepares for upcoming domestic and international commitments with his team, aiming to shift public focus entirely back to athletic performances.
Photo : Bryan Berlin — CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
