Mbappé Loses Chinese Sponsors After Joke About Mao Zedong

French football star Kylian Mbappé has lost sponsorship deals with Chinese companies following the circulation of a video on social media in which he apparently makes a joke about Mao Zedong, China's former leader. The controversy prompted several brands to announce the termination of their commercial partnerships with the Real Madrid forward on Tuesday, October 27.

Among the companies that decided to end their partnerships were Dongpeng Beverage, an energy drinks manufacturer, and Mengniu, one of China's largest dairy producers. Shanghai Milkground Food Tech also announced the termination of its collaboration with the footballer.

The controversy began after a video circulated online showing the 27-year-old French international apparently commenting on an internet meme in which his face had been superimposed onto an image of Mao Zedong, the founding leader of the People's Republic of China.

While referring to the image, Mbappé reportedly described the figure as someone he believed was a Chinese dictator. The comment triggered criticism on Chinese social media, where humorous references to Mao remain particularly sensitive.

The authenticity of the video was not initially independently verified by international news agencies.

In a statement, Dongpeng Beverage announced the immediate suspension of all commercial ties with Mbappé, citing its zero-tolerance policy towards behaviour considered offensive to Chinese national sentiments.

Mengniu adopted a similar position, stating that it would not accept remarks or actions that could hurt the feelings of the Chinese people.

The controversy quickly gained attention across Chinese social media platforms, particularly Weibo, where the termination of Mbappé's partnership with Dongpeng became one of the most widely discussed topics.

Mbappé Issues Public Apology

Following the backlash, the French international issued a public apology, acknowledging that his comment had been inappropriate and expressing regret for offending people in China and Chinese communities abroad.

Despite the apology, the controversy reportedly extended beyond commercial sponsorships. According to international media reports, Chinese state television suspended broadcasts of Spanish league matches, while advertising materials featuring the player began to be withdrawn.

The incident highlights the commercial and reputational risks faced by internationally recognised athletes, particularly in markets where certain historical and political references are considered highly sensitive.

China represents a major commercial market for international football clubs, competitions and sporting brands. Controversies involving prominent athletes can therefore affect advertising contracts, promotional campaigns and business relationships.

Mbappé, one of the world's most recognisable football stars, maintains a substantial international commercial presence. However, the financial value of the cancelled sponsorship agreements and the overall economic impact of the companies' decisions have not been disclosed.

The situation presents the Real Madrid forward with a challenge to rebuild his reputation in one of the world's largest consumer markets, as the commercial consequences of the controversy continue to attract international attention.