Real Madrid has stepped in to contain the fallout from Kylian Mbappe’s controversial remarks about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, issuing a formal apology to the Chinese people.
Real Madrid issued an apology to the Chinese people on Wednesday over French forward Kylian Mbappe’s comments referring to former Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a dictator. Mbappe’s remark led to intense backlash.
The French striker apparently joked about Zedong, a Chinese communist revolutionary, while reacting to his meme. It triggered intense backlash in the country, with major Chinese brands cutting ties with Mbappe for offending national sentiments.
The footballer and La Liga issued separate apologies on Tuesday by sharing a statement on social media. But that was not enough to quell their anger.
Real Madrid issue apology after Mbappe and La Liga’s statements
In a formal statement, Real Madrid apologised for any offence caused by Mbappe’s comments and stressed that the club holds deep respect for China, its history, culture and people and also acknowledged its Chinese fanbase.
Real made sure to maintain positive relations with its Chinese base by expressing regret over the discomfort caused by the remarks.
“Real Madrid CF wishes to express its apologies to the Chinese people for any discomfort caused by the recent words of our player Kylian Mbappe.
More from Football News“Our club maintains a 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 La Liga outfit said.
La Liga in crisis mode
The controversy stemmed from a now-taken-down video on a French podcast where Mbappe discussed a humorous meme where his face was photoshopped onto that of ‘some guy โ I think he’s a Chinese dictator.’
Fans have often shared memes depicting Mbappe as a powerful decision-maker by superimposing his face onto images of military and political figures.
Following the controversy, La Liga moved swiftly to contain the fallout by establishing a dedicated task force and opening communication with Real Madrid. The move was particularly significant given the longstanding tensions between the two parties, who have been embroiled in a power struggle within Spanish football for years.
President Javier Tebas also met with Chinese ambassador Yaoย Jing to resolve the issue, and it is yet to be seen what happens next.