Real Madrid’s Apology Rejected as China Blackouts La Liga Over Mbappé Controversy

China pulls La Liga off air after Mbappe comments on Mao meme

China suspends La Liga broadcasts and rejects Real Madrid’s apology after Kylian Mbappe’s comments about a meme comparing him to a “Chinese dictator.” Brands drop the star as the row escalates

China Suspends La Liga broadcasts after Kylian Mbappe controversy, rejects Real Madrid’s apology...

In a sharp escalation of a diplomatic and commercial row, Chinese state broadcaster China Media Group (CMG, which oversees CCTV) has confirmed it will not air La Liga matches following comments by Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe. Chinese authorities have also rejected Real Madrid’s explanations and initial responses as insufficient, insisting the club cannot distance itself from the player’s remarks.

What Sparked the Backlash

The controversy stems from a recent interview (on the French show The Bridge) in which Mbappe was asked about his favourite meme of himself. He replied that the one that made him laugh the most featured his face superimposed on that of a “Chinese dictator,” adding that he used it a lot with friends. The widely circulated meme placed Mbappe’s face on an image of Mao Zedong, the founding leader of the People’s Republic of China.

In China, such references to Mao are highly sensitive. The comments quickly triggered strong reactions: major Chinese brands including Dongpeng (beverage group), Mengniu, and Milkground terminated their commercial partnerships with Mbappé, citing behaviour that “hurts the feelings of the Chinese people.” Content featuring the player was also restricted on Chinese digital platforms.

Broadcast Ban and Official Response

CMG suspended broadcasts of La Liga matches, games involving Mbappe, and related advertising, with the measures taking effect around 26 October 2026. The broadcaster stated that the player’s remarks “offended the Chinese people,” “crossed fundamental boundaries,” and “go beyond freedom of expression.” It emphasised that Real Madrid, as Mbappe’s club, bears responsibility and cannot shirk it.

A CMG spokesperson rejected Real Madrid’s reported position that Mbappé never intended to offend and had a right to personal opinions. Until the club issues a “satisfactory apology,” the broadcaster said, “there is nothing to discuss.” The suspension remains in place even after subsequent statements.

The Wave of Apologies

Kylian Mbappe issued a statement apologising, describing his comment as “ill-judged” and acknowledging that it hurt many people in China and Chinese communities worldwide. He expressed deep respect for the Chinese people and their history.

La Liga president Javier Tebas condemned the comments as “unacceptable,” apologised on behalf of the league, and engaged with Chinese officials, including meeting the Chinese ambassador to Spain.

Real Madrid released an official statement expressing apologies to the Chinese people for any discomfort caused by Mbappe’s words. The club affirmed its deep respect for China, its history, culture, and citizens, and joined the player’s expression of regret.

Despite these moves, Chinese authorities and the state broadcaster have maintained that the responses so far fall short of what is required.

Broader Implications

China is a major market for European football. La Liga holds broadcast deals there (including recent agreements covering extensive match coverage), and Real Madrid and its star players benefit from sponsorship and fan engagement in the country. The suspension risks significant commercial impact, lost visibility, and strained institutional relationships. Similar past incidents (such as the NBA’s earlier China difficulties) show how quickly cultural or political sensitivities can disrupt sports business ties.

Three major Chinese brands have ended partnerships with French football star Kylian Mbappe after his comments about a meme, showing his head on Mao Zedong’s body, sparked a backlash. Mbappe has apologised but the controversy has drawn criticism from Chinese fans. https://t.co/voK9P5YpOA

— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) October 28, 2026

The episode highlights the tightrope global football stars and clubs walk when navigating different cultural and political contexts. A light-hearted meme reference that might pass as banter in one market can cross a red line in another. For now, Spanish league matches remain off Chinese state television screens, and the path to restoring normal relations depends on further steps that Chinese authorities deem adequate.

This story continues to develop as clubs, the league, and Chinese partners navigate the fallout.