Public anger erupted because mocking Mao Zedong remains strictly taboo in China, where he is officially revered as the nation's founder. While China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged Mbappe's apology, commentators caution that restoring standing in the country will be an uphill struggle. Real Madrid faces immediate commercial vulnerability, as it currently derives 10 to 15 percent of its merchandise revenue directly from Chinese consumers.
Key points
Real Madrid risks losing major revenue derived from Chinese sponsors like Hisense, Kaiyun…: Real Madrid risks losing major revenue derived from Chinese sponsors like Hisense, Kaiyun Sports, and Linglong Tire.
International broadcast rights from China and the United States generated 748 million eur…: International broadcast rights from China and the United States generated 748 million euros for La Liga during the 2024-25 season.
Sports analysts warn that apologies from Mbappe and Spanish soccer officials will not qui…: Sports analysts warn that apologies from Mbappe and Spanish soccer officials will not quickly reverse the reputational damage.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
The French striker is at the centre of a controversy after a video emerged showing him appearing to make fun of former Chinese leader Mao.
Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga have apologised for the French striker’s comments about Mao Zedong, but the damage to their reputation in China will not be easily or quickly repaired, experts say.
The France captain, one of the best footballers on the planet, is at the centre of a controversy after a video emerged this week of him appearing to make fun of former leader Mao.
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Mbappe talked about being amused by an internet meme of his face digitally altered onto “some guy, think he’s a Chinese dictator”.
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