Real Madrid face fresh scrutiny in China over response to Kylian Mbappe controversy

Real Madrid have come under criticism from Chinese state media and government-linked platforms over their handling of Kylian Mbappe’s remarks about Mao Zedong, with the club accused of applying “double standards” compared with its response to racist abuse suffered by Vinicius Junior.

Mbappe caused widespread anger in China after referring to Mao Zedong as “the Chinese dictator” during a joke. The French forward quickly apologised after his comments triggered a wave of criticism across the country.

The controversy has had consequences beyond the media reaction. Chinese platforms blocked images of Mbappe, while two companies – isotonic drinks brand Bushweila and dairy producer Mengniu – ended their partnerships with the player.

China’s foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun gave a brief response when asked about Mbappe’s apology.

“I have already answered this question. We value the apology made by the person concerned,” he said.

The dispute has also affected the relationship between China and Spanish football. China partially suspended the broadcast of La Liga matches in the country, prompting La Liga president Javier Tebas to meet the Chinese ambassador to Spain.

Real Madrid accused of inconsistent approach

According to French website Foot Mercato, the focus has now widened from Mbappe to Real Madrid. Chinese state media and official platforms have accused the Spanish club of adopting a double standard because of the contrast between its handling of the Mbappe affair and its previous responses to racist incidents involving Vinicius Junior.

Real Madrid eventually issued a public statement apologising over the controversy, but it came 48 hours after the incident began. Chinese media regarded that timing as too slow, particularly given the sensitivity of the issue in the country.

Those outlets pointed to the club’s previous willingness to condemn incidents targeting Vinicius, saying Real Madrid had acted quickly when the Brazilian forward faced racist abuse. In the early stages of the Mbappe controversy, however, the club remained silent before intervening later.

That difference in approach has led to questions over why the club reacted differently in the two cases.

Marca reported that Chinese media had linked Real Madrid’s delay to an attempt to balance “protecting the commercial value of its leading star” with “the benefits provided by the Chinese market”.

Guangxi News warned that rebuilding trust would not be straightforward. The newspaper said restoring confidence “will require concrete measures” from the Spanish club.