Mbappé Apologizes After Mao 'Dictator' Joke Sparks China Backlash and Lost Deals

The Real Madrid forward drew fierce pushback in China after calling Mao Zedong a dictator, prompting sponsors to cut ties and authorities to suspend LaLiga broadcasts.

French soccer star Kylian Mbappé has apologized following a public outcry in China, after he referred to revolutionary leader Mao Zedong as a dictator in a video about internet memes, NBC News and newspaper Clarín reported.

Following the remarks by the Real Madrid forward, major Chinese brands, including beverage and dairy producers, announced the immediate cancellation of their sponsorship and advertising deals with him. According to Daily Sabah, the backlash comes amid intense nationalist pushback across the country.

In addition, Clarín reported that authorities in Beijing suspended broadcasts of Spain's LaLiga, a step that could trigger millions of dollars in losses. Further details regarding the full financial fallout have not yet been released.