Real Madrid apologizes to China over Mbappé joke controversy

Real Madrid issued a formal apology to the Chinese people on Wednesday after remarks by French star Kylian Mbappé sparked widespread anger on social media.

Mbappé appeared to joke about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, prompting a backlash that extended beyond the player to the Spanish club.

The controversy led to the suspension of broadcasts of Spanish league football matches in China, giving the dispute wider consequences for the competition.

Real Madrid’s apology followed the wave of criticism. No details were provided about when broadcasts might resume.