Mbappe’s China controversy ends two sponsorship deals worth €7m a year

Kylian Mbappe is facing the financial consequences of a controversy over a video in which he described former Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a “dictator”.

The French forward’s comments prompted an immediate response from the Chinese government, while Chinese state television partially suspended its broadcasts of La Liga matches.

Several Chinese sponsors have also announced that they are ending their partnerships with the Real Madrid player.

According to French newspaper L’Equipe, as reported by Foot Mercato, the companies involved include energy drink manufacturer Bushuila and Mengniu, one of China’s best-known dairy companies. Mbappe had used both his image and his voice in promotional work for the brands.

The two agreements bring the Real Madrid forward about €7m each year. They were due to expire in February and March 2027 respectively, but would have been very likely to be renewed had the controversy not occurred.

L’Equipe reported that an apology from Mbappe is not expected to change the companies’ decision.

Mbappe issued a statement on Tuesday in which he acknowledged that his remarks had caused offence in China and among Chinese communities around the world.

“During a recent interview, I commented on a picture of myself, but my comment was inappropriate, and I now realise that it hurt the feelings of many people in China and Chinese communities around the world,” he said.

“I apologise to everyone who was upset by my words. That was absolutely not my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and I express my sincere regret.”