Real Madrid Apologizes to China Over Mbappe’s Mao Zedong Remarks
In a statement released on Wednesday, the club expressed regret over the comments, which sparked widespread criticism in China.
Spanish football powerhouse Real Madrid issues an apology to China following controversial remarks by its star striker Kylian Mbappe that appeared to mock former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. Photo: Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
Spanish football powerhouse Real Madrid has issued an apology to China following controversial remarks by its star striker Kylian Mbappe that appeared to mock former Chinese leader Mao Zedong.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the club expressed regret over the comments, which sparked widespread criticism in China.
“Real Madrid C.F. wishes to express its apologies to the Chinese people for any offense caused by the recent remarks of our player Kylian Mbappe,” the club said.
Real Madrid added that it maintains deep respect for China, its history, culture and citizens, as well as the millions of Chinese supporters who follow the club.
The apology came a day after Mbappe personally apologized for his comments, acknowledging that his words had offended people in China and Chinese communities around the world.
China also responded on Wednesday, saying it took the French international’s apology seriously.
The controversy emerged after a video interview with the French programme The Bridge circulated online. In the interview, Mbappe reportedly joked about an internet meme featuring his face digitally superimposed onto the image of a man he described as a Chinese dictator, in an apparent reference to Mao Zedong.
The video was subsequently taken down.
Mbappe, who captains the French national team, admitted that his remarks were poorly judged and apologized in a statement published in French, Chinese and English.
Mao Zedong, who led the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, remains a highly sensitive historical and political figure in the country. Comments perceived as ridiculing him can provoke strong public reactions.
The incident places Mbappe among foreign sports personalities who have faced backlash in China over remarks considered offensive to the country’s history and political sensitivities.
Real Madrid’s swift response underscores the importance of its relationship with Chinese supporters, a significant international audience for the club.
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