Mbappé: "I apologise"

Real Madrid forward Mbappé apologised after joking about resembling Mao Zedong in an interview, prompting Chinese state TV to suspend La Liga broadcasts.

Kylian Mbappé issued a public apology after comments he made during a recent interview sparked significant controversy in China. When asked about his favourite meme, the Real Madrid forward joked that he had laughed most at one comparing his face to a Chinese dictator, saying he used it frequently with friends.

The remarks drew swift condemnation from China's government through its Foreign Ministry, which warned that words and actions "hurting the feelings of the Chinese people will be rejected by all sectors of society". State broadcaster CCTV suspended La Liga transmissions and all content featuring Mbappé from Monday evening, while removing advertisements and videos starring the player.

In his statement, Mbappé wrote: "My comment was misguided and I now understand it has hurt many people in China and members of the Chinese community worldwide. I apologise to all those who may have been offended by my words. It was absolutely not my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and I sincerely regret it."

The fallout extended across Chinese platforms and sponsors. Beverage group Dongpeng and its sports brand Bu Shui La terminated commercial ties with Mbappé, citing "zero tolerance for behaviour that hurts national feelings". Dairy companies Mengniu and Milkground also ended partnerships with the forward.