"An individual episode": Javier Tebas met China's ambassador to Spain after Mbappé controversy

La Liga president Tebas met with China's ambassador to Spain to address fallout from Mbappé's comments about Mao Zedong, emphasizing the league's strategic partnership with China.

Javier Tebas, president of La Liga, held a meeting with China's ambassador to Spain on Tuesday evening to address the controversy sparked by Kylian Mbappé's remarks about Mao Zedong, which were published via a podcast featuring Real Madrid teammate Aurélien Tchouameni.

Tebas issued a statement distancing himself from the Real Madrid forward, emphasizing La Liga's commitment to its relationship with China. He highlighted the league's collaborative work with Chinese authorities, football institutions, broadcasters and companies over recent years to promote Spanish football in China and support Chinese football's development. The partnership includes a development contract running until 2029.

Tebas stressed that the relationship is built on "mutual respect, trust and cooperation" and called Mbappé's comments "an individual episode" that should not damage the progress made or affect the millions of Chinese fans following La Liga competitions. He concluded by reaffirming that China remains a strategic partner for the league. Mbappé has already lost several Chinese sponsors following his controversial remarks and subsequent apology.