Kylian Mbappé Apologizes for Comments on Mao Zedong

World-renowned footballer Kylian Mbappé has issued a public apology following massive backlash in China and successive sponsorship cancellations over his alleged remarks describing Mao Zedong as a dictator.

Targeted by criticism over his evaluations regarding China's founding leader Mao Zedong, Kylian Mbappé stated in an official release that his expressions were misunderstood and caused hurt among the Chinese people. Emphasizing that his words did not contain any ill intent, Mbappé expressed deep respect for the Chinese people and their history.

Following these developments, leading Chinese companies such as Dongpeng, Mengniu, and Milkground terminated their sponsorship contracts with the footballer, stating they opposed words and actions that offend national sentiments. Meanwhile, the China Football Association sent an official protest note to the Real Madrid club, while China Media Group announced that it suspended broadcasts of Spanish La Liga matches and competitions featuring the footballer.