Real Madrid Apologizes to China Over Kylian Mbappé’s Remarks as LaLiga Ban Remains Uncertain

Kylian Mbappé’s controversy is threatening Real Madrid’s ties with China. Following the suspension of LaLiga broadcasts and the loss of commercial deals, the club has taken a key step to contain the crisis.

Mbappé Controversy Puts Real Madrid Under Pressure

A comment by Kylian Mbappé about a meme related to Mao Zedong, the founder of the People’s Republic of China, has turned into an issue with sporting and commercial repercussions. The circulation of a clip from the French program The Bridge sparked criticism in the Asian country and intensified pressure on the Real Madrid forward.

The reaction extended beyond social media. China Media Group (CMG) confirmed the suspension of LaLiga broadcasts on its platforms, while several Chinese companies terminated their advertising agreements with the player. The controversy has also affected the relationship between the Spanish club and one of its key international markets.

Real Madrid Apologizes to China Over Mbappé’s Remarks

Amid mounting pressure, Real Madrid issued a statement on Wednesday, October 28, apologizing to the Chinese people for any offense caused by its player’s remarks. The club expressed its respect for the country’s history, culture, and citizens, while acknowledging the bond it shares with millions of Chinese fans.

The club also backed Mbappé’s earlier apology. The French forward acknowledged that his comments were ill-judged and had hurt people in China and Chinese communities around the world. Real Madrid’s apology addressed one of China Media Group’s main demands, as the organization had made a public apology from the club a condition for further discussions.

China Acknowledges the Apology, but LaLiga Ban Remains Uncertain

China Media Group confirmed that it had received Real Madrid’s apology, but did not announce whether broadcasts would resume. Before the club’s statement, a spokesperson for the organization had warned that there would be no further discussions unless Real Madrid issued an appropriate apology.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the government took Mbappé’s apology seriously but avoided clarifying whether the measures would be lifted. For now, there is no confirmation that Real Madrid’s gesture will be enough to resolve the dispute.

Mbappé’s Commercial Fallout Remains Unresolved

Dongpeng, Mengniu, and Milkground announced the termination of their commercial agreements with the French forward, although the financial terms of the contracts have not been disclosed. Restrictions on content featuring Mbappé have also affected his presence on Chinese platforms.

However, the full scope of the ban remains unclear. Migu, which is affiliated with China Mobile, had not publicly announced the suspension of its agreement to broadcast LaLiga matches. There was also no confirmation of a ban on Real Madrid’s Champions League matches in China. The club’s apology aims to contain the controversy, but the resumption of broadcasts and the recovery of commercial partnerships remain uncertain.