Kylian Mbappe Issues Apology to China Following 'Dictator' Remark and Subsequent Brand Backlash

Real Madrid forward and France national team captain Kylian Mbappe is facing significant backlash in China, having issued a public apology on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, for controversial remarks that led to major Chinese brands severing ties and state television suspending broadcasts of La Liga matches. The incident, stemming from an online video where the 27-year-old forward seemingly joked about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, has ignited a firestorm across Chinese social media and official channels. La Liga 2026-27: Kylian Mbappe Scores Twice As Real Madrid Beat Barcelona 2-1 in Thrilling El Clasico.

Kylian Mbappe Issues Apology

https://t.co/MQBo9NCSy5

— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) October 27, 2026

The controversy erupted after a clip, reportedly filmed in April but widely circulated on Monday, October 26, 2026, showed Mbappe discussing his favourite internet meme of himself. He described it as a video of his face photoshopped onto 'some guy – I think he's a Chinese dictator.' The meme in question depicted Mbappe superimposed on an image of Mao Zedong, a figure whose portrayal in jest is considered deeply taboo in China.

Kylian Mbappe's Apology and China's Response

Recognising the gravity of the situation, Mbappe released a statement in French, Chinese, and English, attempting to defuse the anger. “My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world. I apologise to everyone my words have upset,” he wrote. He further added, “This was absolutely not my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and I am sincerely sorry.”

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs also weighed in, with spokesperson Guo Jiakun stating that “words and actions that hurt the feelings of the Chinese people will naturally be met with joint opposition from all sectors of Chinese society.” This collective response underscores the sensitivity surrounding historical figures in China and the potential commercial and reputational risks for international celebrities.

Brand Backlash and Broadcast Suspension

The immediate fallout for Mbappe was severe. Several prominent Chinese companies swiftly announced the termination of their partnership agreements with the football star. Beverage giant Dongpeng, dairy producer Mengniu, and cheese maker Milkground all released statements confirming they were cutting ties, citing a 'zero-tolerance policy towards any behaviour that offends national sentiments.' Additionally, social media platform RedNote reportedly removed promotional materials featuring Mbappe and banned his account from accepting new followers. Kylian Mbappe Goals Video: Watch Real Madrid Star Score Twice Against Barcelona in El Clasico 2026.

Beyond personal sponsorships, the repercussions extended to Spanish football. The state-run Chinese digital newspaper, The Paper, reported that public television was suspending broadcasts of La Liga matches, a move echoed by other reports suggesting state broadcaster CCTV would consider Mbappé's apology but judge his future actions. Spain's La Liga itself issued an apology, stating it 'deeply regrets the offence that Kylian Mbappe's recent comments have caused among Chinese fans. These comments were made in a personal capacity and do not represent La Liga.'

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the cultural sensitivities and the significant market power of China, highlighting the intricate balance global sports stars must maintain in their public pronouncements.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 28, 2026 10:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).