La Liga moves to repair China ties after Kylian Mbappe image controversy

Javier Tebas, president of La Liga, has apologised to the people of China after comments by Kylian Mbappe relating to a satirical image of Chinese leader caused offence.

Tebas said he regretted the upset caused by the player’s words and confirmed that La Liga was working with its partners in China to resolve the situation.

In a message posted on X, Tebas wrote: “We recognise the damage this matter has caused, and on behalf of La Liga, I would like to offer our sincere apologies to the Chinese people.”

He warned that the incident could have consequences for Spanish football as a whole, saying an individual’s actions should not damage the relationship between La Liga and China or affect the clubs and supporters connected to its competitions.

“We cannot allow an individual act to tarnish this relationship or harm more than 20 clubs taking part in our professional competitions, as well as millions of Chinese fans,” he said.

La Liga contacts Chinese partners

Tebas also highlighted the relationship La Liga has developed with China over many years. He said it was built on respect, trust and co-operation with Chinese authorities, sporting organisations and television broadcasters, as well as with the millions of people who follow Spanish football.

He confirmed that La Liga had already begun taking steps to address the issue, although he did not give details of the measures being considered.

“We are taking the measures available to us and are working directly with our partners and the relevant parties in China to overcome this crisis,” Tebas said.

The La Liga president also stressed that the organisation’s relationship with China and its institutions remained strong.

“Our commitment to China, its people and its institutions is unwavering,” he added. “An individual incident cannot be allowed to damage a relationship that has been built over many years.”