Mbappé controversy in China: behind the scenes of a video that became a state affair

Mbappé apologized after a video joke about a Chinese dictator sparked backlash in China, forcing La Liga to distance itself and Chinese firms to suspend partnerships.

Kylian Mbappé became embroiled in a major controversy in China after a video published Monday showed him joking about a photomontage of his face superimposed on Mao Zedong, described as a "Chinese dictator." The clip, filmed over six months ago during an episode of "The Bridge" with Real Madrid and France teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni, had been approved by Mbappé's team before release but was deleted within two hours as it spread on Chinese social media.

The backlash was swift and severe. Chinese companies announced they were suspending collaborations with the striker, and La Liga confirmed that Spanish league broadcasts were partially suspended in the country. Both Mbappé and "The Bridge" issued apology statements on Tuesday.

La Liga, which views the Chinese market as strategically vital and maintains permanent offices there since 2014, released a statement expressing deep regret over Mbappé's remarks. The league committed to implementing a "protocol of awareness and communication" with clubs and players to prevent similar incidents in future.