Tebas meets Chinese ambassador over Mbappé row

LaLiga president Tebas met with China's ambassador to Spain to repair relations after Mbappé's controversial comments, apologising and reaffirming strategic partnerships.

LaLiga president Javier Tebas moved quickly to contain fallout from Kylian Mbappé's remarks, issuing a public apology on social media and then meeting with China's ambassador to Spain to address the diplomatic row.

Tebas emphasised LaLiga's long-standing collaboration with Chinese authorities, broadcasters and football institutions, highlighting key agreements including a strategic partnership with the Chinese Professional Football League running until 2029 and deals with China Media Group. He stressed the relationship is built on mutual respect, trust and cooperation.

In a statement, Tebas pledged LaLiga's commitment to ensuring "an individual episode" does not damage the progress made or affect millions of Chinese fans following the competition. He reiterated that China remains a strategic partner for LaLiga.