French football star Kylian Mbappe has lost several endorsement deals with major Chinese companies following the circulation of a video in which he purportedly makes light of Mao Zedong. In the footage, the Real Madrid forward mentions a meme depicting his face superimposed on the image of a Chinese dictator. While the authenticity of the clip remains unconfirmed, the reaction in China has been swift. Beyond the termination of commercial partnerships, state media outlet The Paper reported that national television has halted the broadcasting of Spanish La Liga matches. The controversy stems from the sensitivity surrounding the legacy of China’s founding leader, whose image is protected by strict social and political norms. Mbappe’s comments have triggered significant backlash, leading to widespread repercussions for his professional presence within the Chinese market.
Source : Hong Kong Free Press
Photo : Hong Kong Free Press
