Controversy over Kylian Mbappé: China cuts its ties

Kylian Mbappé finds himself at the centre of a controversy after reacting with amusement to a meme depicting Mao Zedong, whom he called a dictator, triggering a strong reaction from China. On Tuesday, several Chinese brands ended their partnership with the runner‑up of the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Reaction to the meme and wave of anger

He reacted with amusement to a meme that portrayed him as Mao Zedong, the founder of the Chinese Communist Party, whom he called a “dictator” in a video, while admitting he did not know the figure. This statement was quickly shared on social media, where the captain of Les Bleus sparked outrage.

The captain of Les Bleus thus faced a fierce backlash from the Middle Kingdom. Chinese netizens criticised his comment, calling it disrespectful towards China.

Commercial and diplomatic consequences

At the same time, Mbappé’s social media accounts were blocked in China. This censorship was confirmed by local observers.

The Liga broadcaster in the country has already suspended the airing of Real Madrid matches on its channels. This decision heightens the media dimension of the crisis.

In the end, a genuine diplomatic crisis erupted following a simple joke. Chinese authorities expressed their displeasure officially.

Chinese controversy and Kane's overtaking put Mbappé under pressure

Over the past forty‑eight hours, Mbappé has received little support and his club hurried to issue its deepest apologies to Beijing and President Xi Jinping. The club said it deeply regretted the controversy.

The president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, said on Wednesday that his remarks should reassure the star. He stated that Mbappé had very clearly explained the context of his intervention and had apologised.

Marine Tondelier, spokesperson for the ecologists, expressed her strongest support, stating: “I have seen this controversy, which is certainly a bit too strong. I do not think Kylian intended, in any way, to damage the image of a Chinese leader, nor to insult or offend the Chinese people.”

Philippe Diallo concluded: “I think Kylian explained very well the context in which his intervention took place. He apologised. I believe we should now leave it at that, so he can continue his season under the best possible conditions.”

Kylian Mbappé faces Chinese controversy and Kane's rise

On the political stage, the silence remains deafening; only Marine Tondelier has shown engagement on the issue. The other officials have so far avoided commenting publicly.

On her X account, the national secretary of the ecologists wrote: “Kylian Mbappé did not express an opinion but established facts. In an era where science is questioned daily by supporters of authoritarianism, it is never useless to remind that. Systematically yielding to China’s economic pressures is a sign of weakness.”