Chinese Brands Sever Ties with Mbappé Amid Backlash Over Alleged Mao Zedong Remark
Several Chinese brands have terminated endorsement deals with French football star Kylian Mbappé following a growing online backlash over alleged comments he made that were perceived as disrespectful towards the late Chinese leader Mao Zedong.
The controversy stems from unverified clips circulating online, reportedly from a French talk show called ‘The Bridge’. In these clips, Mbappé is heard describing his favourite meme, which he says involves a video of “a guy, I think it’s a Chinese dictator.” As he speaks, a meme appears showing his face superimposed onto an image resembling Mao Zedong. The Real Madrid forward is quoted as saying he uses the meme frequently with friends.
While Mbappé did not explicitly name Mao Zedong in the alleged remarks, and the original video has reportedly been removed from the show’s YouTube channel, screenshots of the meme have proliferated across Chinese social media platforms. This has ignited a significant public reaction.
Growing Backlash and Official Response
The situation escalated when China’s foreign ministry weighed in. Spokesperson Lin Jian stated, “We have noted the relevant reports. Words and deeds that hurt the feelings of the Chinese people will naturally be met with opposition from all sectors of Chinese society.” This official comment underscored the sensitivity of the issue within China.
Chinese football forum Dongqiudi also drew attention to the alleged comments on Monday night, issuing a statement that described them as “inappropriate” and having “hurt the feelings of Chinese people.” The forum added that due to the offensive nature of the remarks, they were unable to translate them.
Online criticism quickly followed, with many users expressing disappointment and anger. Mbappé, who enjoys considerable popularity and holds numerous brand endorsements in China, was accused by some of “profiting from the Chinese market yet making remarks that offend the Chinese public.” Comments on social media platforms like Weibo emphasized the need for international public figures to exhibit greater respect and sensitivity towards national sentiments.
Brand Terminations and Media Impact
In the wake of the online outcry, several prominent Chinese brands have moved to distance themselves from the footballer. While specific brands have not explicitly detailed the reasons for terminating their contracts, they have referenced hurt sentiments and a zero-tolerance policy towards actions that offend national feelings.
Mengniu, China’s largest dairy producer, stated its firm opposition and zero-tolerance policy towards any words or actions that hurt the feelings of the Chinese people. Similarly, drinks giant Dongpeng declared its opposition to any behaviour that offends national sentiments.
The repercussions have extended to media coverage. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV is reportedly suspending the broadcast of La Liga matches. Furthermore, according to state-owned newspaper The Global Times, CCTV’s news applications have removed content related to the French striker.
Context of Mao Zedong’s Legacy
Mao Zedong, the founder of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, remains a complex and revered figure within the country’s political narrative. Despite the significant societal and economic shifts China has undergone since his death in 1976, the Chinese Communist Party continues to uphold his legacy as a national icon whose contributions are considered beyond reproach.
Historical events associated with Mao’s leadership, such as the Great Leap Forward, which led to widespread famine, and the Cultural Revolution, a period of political turmoil and purges, are sensitive topics. International figures are expected to tread carefully when referencing this era or its key figures.
Neither Kylian Mbappé nor ‘The Bridge’ talk show have issued official comments regarding the controversy or the alleged remarks at the time of reporting. The exact broadcast date of the interview also remains unclear.
The ongoing backlash highlights the significant influence of public opinion and national sentiment in China’s consumer market, particularly concerning high-profile international celebrities and their endorsements.
The situation underscores the delicate balance international stars must maintain when engaging with diverse global markets, where cultural sensitivities and historical contexts can have profound commercial consequences.
Further developments are anticipated as the story unfolds, with potential implications for Mbappé’s future brand partnerships and his relationship with the Chinese market.
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