China communicates with Real Madrid over Mbappe remarks
Chinese ambassador Yao Jing confirmed Beijing is in contact with the club and LaLiga following comments about a former leader.
China's ambassador to Spain, Yao Jing, confirmed on Friday, November 6, that Beijing is in communication with Real Madrid and LaLiga regarding remarks made by Kylian Mbappe. According to the Times of India, while there are no formal negotiations, the communication aims to reach a mutual understanding and address concerns raised in China.
The controversy began after the Real Madrid forward discussed an internet meme on the podcast The Bridge. In the video, Mbappe described a person in a meme featuring his face superimposed on an image of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong as "some guy, I think he's a Chinese dictator."
Mbappe issued a public apology on October 27, stating his comment was ill-judged and that he understands it hurt people in China. Real Madrid and LaLiga also apologised, with LaLiga noting the comments were made in a personal capacity.
The incident has led to commercial consequences, including Chinese companies Dongpeng Beverage Group, Mengniu Dairy, and Shanghai Milkground Food Tech ending partnerships with Mbappe. Additionally, state-owned broadcaster CCTV suspended its coverage of LaLiga matches.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas said the league is continuing its dialogue with Chinese authorities and is working to resolve the issue. The league's broadcasting contracts with CCTV and Migu are currently worth approximately €10 million annually.
