Mbappe Apologises After Mao Remarks Spark Backlash in China

Real Madrid’s French footballer Kylian Mbappe has apologised over remarks in which he appeared to describe Mao Zedong, the founder of communist China, as a dictator.

The comments drew criticism in China and were followed by the loss of advertising partnerships with three Chinese companies.

Mbappe’s apology addressed the controversy surrounding his apparent characterisation of Mao, whose place in Chinese history made the remarks particularly sensitive.

The dispute has extended beyond football, bringing commercial consequences for the Real Madrid player as he seeks to respond to the backlash.