Real Madrid issues formal apology to China over Mbappe remarks

Real Madrid on Wednesday issued a formal apology to the Chinese people following a wave of criticism sparked by comments from its French striker Kylian Mbappe, who referred to late Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a "dictator."

Several Chinese brands, including dairy companies Mengniu and Shanghai Milkground Food Tech, as well as beverage firm Eastroc, ended all cooperation with Mbappe on Tuesday after his remarks, prompting the player to issue his own apology soon after.

Mbappe had said in a video on a French podcast, which was later deleted, that the funniest satirical image he had seen of himself was one where his face was edited onto "someone—I think a Chinese dictator."

In an official statement, the club said: "Real Madrid would like to apologize to the Chinese people for any offense caused by the recent comments made by our player Kylian Mbappe." The statement added: "Our club holds deep respect for China, its history, culture, and people, and values the millions of fans in China who share their love and admiration for Real Madrid."

The controversy has highlighted the risks faced by athletes and brands in the Chinese market, where mocking Mao Zedong—the founder of modern China and its leader from 1949 to 1976—remains a social taboo.

Satirical images have circulated showing Mbappe's face superimposed on political and military leaders, referencing what some see as his significant influence over the clubs he plays for. Some European media outlets have even dubbed him "the dictator."

When asked about Beijing's response to Mbappe's apology, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday: "We take the apology seriously."