Madrid affected by Mbappé controversy in China

Real Madrid's image rights revenue and shirt sales in China face pressure after Mbappé's comments about Mao Zedong sparked government backlash.

Kylian Mbappé's controversial remarks about Mao Zedong have triggered a diplomatic row with the Chinese government, with ripple effects across La Liga and Real Madrid. The club stands to lose significant income through multiple channels: Mbappé's annual advertising revenue alone is worth approximately €30 million, and Real Madrid takes a percentage of his image rights earnings under their player contracts.

China represents a crucial market for Real Madrid, accounting for roughly 15% of global shirt sales. Mbappé's number 10 jersey is currently the club's best-seller worldwide, but the controversy threatens that status. While Mbappé has since apologized and his apologies have reached the Chinese government, the damage to Real Madrid's commercial standing in Asia may take time to repair, given the sensitivity of the market.