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Tue, 27 Oct 2026

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 Mbappé sorry for 'ill-judged' Mao remark after backlash in China

The France star had referred to the former Chinese leader as a "dictator" during an interview about memes.

* Mbappé apologizes for "ill-judged" remarks, saying they hurt many people in China and its communities worldwide
* Spanish La Liga also apologizes, stating it regrets the offense caused among Chinese fans
* Several Chinese brands terminate sponsorship deals with Mbappé due to his comments on Mao Zedong
* Mbappé's apology comes after he acknowledged that jokes or memes about Mao "reveal a lack of political and human awareness"
* The backlash highlights the sensitive nature of China's past, particularly the legacy of Mao Zedong
* Mbappé's influence as a global icon extends beyond football to fashion, culture, and business, but his comments on Mao have sparked controversy in China