Real Madrid’s striker says his comments were inappropriate, while the controversy in China has led to the cancellation of several advertising contracts. La Liga president Javier Tebas has also publicly reacted.
Kylian Mbappé has apologized publicly after the strong backlash in China, triggered by his comments about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. Reports say the controversy has also led to the cancellation of several advertising deals.
The Real Madrid forward and France captain published a statement in French, English and Mandarin, expressing regret for his words.
“I apologize to everyone who felt offended by my comments during a recent interview. My remark was inappropriate, and I understand that it has hurt many people in China and Chinese communities around the world. This was by no means my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and I am sincerely sorry,” Mbappé said.
The reactions began after a video circulated online in which the footballer described Mao Zedong as a dictator.
La Liga president Javier Tebas also joined the debate, expressing regret over the player’s statements.
“As La Liga, we strongly condemn the statements made by Kylian Mbappé, which have caused concern and offense in China. On behalf of La Liga, I sincerely apologize to the Chinese people,” Tebas wrote on the social network X.
He stressed that Spanish football has for years built relationships of cooperation and respect with China, its institutions and millions of fans.
Tebas added that La Liga is working with its Chinese partners to get past the situation, emphasizing that an individual incident should not damage relationships built over many years.
