Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé apologized Tuesday for a remark about a meme that placed his face on an image of Mao Zedong, saying his comment “was ill-judged” and had hurt people in China.
The apology followed criticism online and decisions by three Chinese companies to end their agreements with the France captain.
In a statement shared on X in French, Chinese and English, Mbappé said he had reacted to an image of himself during a recent interview.
“My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world,” he wrote.
“I apologise to everyone my words have upset. This was absolutely not my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and I am sincerely sorry.”
What prompted the apology
The controversy followed the circulation of a clip that appeared to show Mbappé being interviewed ahead of an appearance on the French online talk show The Bridge, according to the Associated Press.
Asked about his favorite meme of himself, Mbappé referred to a figure he described as a “Chinese dictator.” The clip showed his face superimposed on Mao’s blue-suited body.
Agence France-Presse reported that the remark was an apparent reference to Mao, the founding leader of the People’s Republic of China. The agency said its fact-checking team could not immediately verify the circulating video’s authenticity.
Mbappé’s apology acknowledged an ill-judged interview comment but did not name Mao or identify the program.
Chinese brands end agreements
Beverage maker Dongpeng and dairy producer Mengniu announced Tuesday that they were immediately ending their cooperation with Mbappé, AFP reported.
Dongpeng said it opposed behavior that offended national sentiment. Mengniu similarly said it rejected words or actions that hurt the feelings of the Chinese people. Their announcements followed the circulation of the clip, although neither company explicitly identified it as the reason for its decision.
Cheese producer Milkground also ended its agreement with Mbappé, AP reported. The announcements brought consequences for a player whose advertising campaigns in China have promoted drinks, milk and cheese.
The statement, dated Oct. 27, did not address the companies’ decisions or say whether Mbappé would seek to restore those partnerships.
Have something to promote?
Bring your business, services or event to our readers.
