China Suspends Kylian Mbappe Broadcasts and Sponsors After Mao Meme Remark
China has suspended La Liga broadcasts featuring Kylian Mbappe and cut commercial ties with the Real Madrid star after he joked about an internet meme depicting his face on Mao Zedong.
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe has sparked a major controversy in China after joking about a viral internet meme featuring his face superimposed on a portrait of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. According to reports by the EFE news agency citing the Chinese outlet The Paper, state broadcaster CCTV has suspended La Liga broadcasts and matches featuring the French forward, effective Monday evening.
The controversy erupted following a recent interview in which Mbappe was asked about his favorite internet meme. He responded that the funniest one was the image placing his face on a Chinese dictator, noting that he frequently shares it with friends. Although he did not name a specific leader, social media platforms have circulated images combining his likeness with that of Mao Zedong, a revered and politically sensitive figure in modern Chinese history.
Following the remarks, Chinese state television pulled matches involving Mbappe off the air alongside promotional clips and advertisements. Major corporate sponsors quickly severed ties with the player. Beverage manufacturer Dongfeng announced an immediate termination of its contract, stating on Weibo that it maintains zero tolerance for behavior that harms national sentiments. Dairy giants Mengniu and Milkground also confirmed the end of their partnerships.
The backlash represents a severe commercial blow for Mbappe, who has featured prominently in advertising campaigns across China, appearing on public transport and billboards ahead of major sporting events. Meanwhile, Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu clarified that its contract with the player expired in December 2024, though the company is actively removing related content.
Political sensitivity surrounding historical leaders and the ruling Communist Party remains extremely high in China, where laws penalize the defamation of national heroes. This incident follows previous diplomatic sensitivities involving Spanish football clubs in the region, including past controversies over territorial references by Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.
