Real Madrid has officially apologized to China following controversial comments made by forward Kylian Mbappé referencing Mao Zedong.
In a statement released on Tuesday, October 28, 2026, the Spanish club said it deeply respects China and its people.
“Real Madrid C.F. wishes to express its apologies to the Chinese people for any discomfort that may have been caused by the recent words of our player Kylian Mbappé,” the club stated.
“Our club holds deep respect for China, its history, its culture, and its citizens, as well as for the millions of Chinese fans who feel affection and admiration for Real Madrid,” the statement added.
The club said it fully associates itself with the public apology already issued by the player and reaffirmed its commitment to respect, coexistence and understanding among cultures.
The controversy originated from Mbappé’s appearance on the French podcast The Bridge, where he was asked about viral memes that superimpose his face onto historical figures.
Referring to one such meme, he said it featured “a Chinese dictator,” while the video displayed an image of Mao Zedong, founder of the People’s Republic of China.
The comments sparked widespread backlash in China, where Mao remains a highly revered figure.
Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reportedly suspended LaLiga broadcasts in response, while several Chinese companies, including Dongpeng Beverage, Mengniu and Milkground, terminated endorsement deals with the France captain.
Mbappé had earlier issued a personal apology on Tuesday, describing his comment as “ill-judged” and acknowledging that it had hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities worldwide.
LaLiga has also issued an apology over the incident, with President Javier Tebas reportedly meeting the Chinese Ambassador to Spain, Yao Jing, as part of efforts to contain the diplomatic and commercial fallout.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
