China Pulls the Plug on Real Madrid and Kylian Mbappé
The controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappé continues to escalate. Chinese state television has suspended LaLiga broadcasts and is demanding further apologies from Real Madrid.
A joke by Kylian Mbappé has sparked a controversy that now extends far beyond the football pitch. Chinese state television has confirmed the suspension of LaLiga broadcasts after the French forward made a remark about a meme involving Mao Zedong, the founding leader of the People's Republic of China.
China Media Group (CMG) confirmed on Wednesday, October 28, that the suspension, which began on October 26, remains in place. The restrictions affect LaLiga matches carried by the state broadcaster, along with content and advertisements featuring Mbappé.
The broadcaster also rejected Real Madrid's reported explanation that the player had never intended to cause offense. According to CMG, his remarks crossed fundamental boundaries and went beyond acceptable freedom of expression, prompting demands for a satisfactory apology before the dispute can be resolved.
What Did Kylian Mbappé Say to Spark the Controversy in China?
The controversy began when Mbappé was asked about his favorite meme during an interview. The French superstar mentioned an image showing his face superimposed onto that of a "Chinese dictator," referring to a widely circulated meme featuring Mao Zedong.
Although Mbappé did not explicitly name the former Chinese leader, his comments triggered a backlash. Three Chinese companies — Dongpeng, Mengniu and Milkground — reportedly ended their commercial partnerships with the player, while restrictions were also imposed on his content across Chinese digital platforms.
Real Madrid and Kylian Mbappé Face Demands for Further Apologies
As the controversy intensified, Mbappé released a statement in French, English and Chinese expressing regret over his remarks and emphasizing his deep respect for the Chinese people and their history.
The dispute has also placed Real Madrid under pressure. Chinese state television rejected the club's reported defense of the forward, insisting that Madrid cannot distance itself from the actions of one of its players. Despite Mbappé's statement, CMG has not announced when LaLiga broadcasts might resume.
Javier Tebas Steps In as LaLiga Faces a Growing Dispute
LaLiga president Javier Tebas has personally intervened in an attempt to resolve the situation. He sent a letter to Chinese state television condemning Mbappé's remarks and apologizing for the offense caused. Tebas also met with Yao Jing, China's ambassador to Spain, as efforts continued to ease tensions.
The controversy carries significant commercial implications for Spanish football. LaLiga maintains broadcasting and cooperation agreements in China, including a strategic partnership with the country's professional football league running through 2029. For now, the confirmed suspension concerns Chinese state television, and it remains unclear whether other broadcasters holding LaLiga rights will be affected.
Key Developments in the Kylian Mbappé Controversy
- Chinese state television suspended LaLiga broadcasts following Kylian Mbappé's comments about a meme featuring Mao Zedong.
- Three Chinese companies reportedly ended their sponsorship deals with Mbappé, while the player issued a statement expressing regret.
- Javier Tebas intervened to resolve the dispute, but no date has been announced for the resumption of broadcasts.
Subscribe to watch beIN SPORTS LIVE
You Might Also Like:
Kylian Mbappé Lottin
Real Madrid CF
