Sponsors Drop Mbappe After Meme Comment on Mao
Kylian Mbappe’s controversial meme comment sparks sponsor backlash and apology.
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Several major sponsors have pulled their support from Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe following backlash over his comments about a meme depicting him as Chinese dictator Mao Zedong. The controversy erupted after Mbappe’s remarks, shared on X, sparked widespread criticism and led to the termination of partnerships with Dongpeng, Mengniu, and Milkground.
Mbappe’s comments, which circulated in a clip shared on X, were part of an interview on “The Bridge.” In the clip, he was asked about his favorite meme and responded by saying it depicted him as a Chinese dictator. The image shown in the clip appeared to use Mao’s likeness, prompting outrage among fans and sponsors.
Following the backlash, Dongpeng, a beverage maker; Mengniu, a dairy giant; and Milkground, a cheese maker, announced they were ending their sponsorships, citing opposition to “any words and actions that hurt national sentiment.” Mbappe had previously appeared in advertising campaigns in China, including a FIFA 2026 World Cup yogurt commercial for Mengniu.
Mbappe responded by issuing an apology via his verified X account. He stated, “During a recent interview, I reacted to an image of myself. My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurts many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world. I apologize to everyone my words have upset. This was absolutely not my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history and I am sincerely sorry.”
The Spanish Professional Football Association LaLiga also issued a statement about Mbappe’s comments. “LALIGA deeply regrets the offense caused by Kylian Mbappe’s recent comments among Chinese fans. These comments were made in a personal capacity and do not represent LALIGA. To the extent of our institutional responsibility, we apologize on behalf of LALIGA and all its clubs,” the statement read.
😂🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappé avoue qu’il rigole en voyant les memes qui le représentent en… dictateur. 😭 @Thebridge_show #Mbappé #Football #Memes #France https://t.co/MXgKh8Hjjq
Mao Zedong, the Chinese leader who founded the People’s Republic of China in 1949, ruled the country until his death in 1976. His legacy remains a sensitive topic in China, and Mbappe’s remarks were seen as a misstep that could damage diplomatic and commercial ties.
Source: Daily Caller
