Diplomatic crisis over Mbappé as China severs its partnerships

Kylian Mbappé is in turmoil. He reacted amusedly to a meme portraying him as Mao Zedong, the founder of the Chinese Communist Party, which he called a “dictator” without really knowing the figure, sparking a fierce backlash from the Middle Kingdom, the captain of Les Bleus. The comments from the president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, on Wednesday, have certainly relieved the star.

Several Chinese brands terminated their partnership on Tuesday with the runner‑up of the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

His social media accounts were blocked in China, while the Liga broadcaster in the country has already suspended Real Madrid matches from its channels.

This situation constitutes a genuine diplomatic crisis triggered by a simple joke.

Philippe Diallo backs Mbappé and French team in China controversy

In the past 48 hours, standing alone against the storm, he has received little support, abandoned by his club which quickly offered its deepest apologies to Beijing and President Xi Jinping.

Marine Tondelier expressed the strongest support, stating: “I have seen this controversy, which is certainly a bit too intense. I don’t think Kylian intended, in any way, to damage the image of a Chinese leader, nor to insult or offend the Chinese people. I believe this is a controversy that should not, in any case I hope, last.”

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

Chinese controversy and Kane's overtaking put Mbappé under pressure

On the political stage, the silence is deafening and only Marine Tondelier has shown engagement, writing on X: “Kylian Mbappé has not expressed an opinion but established facts. In an era where science is questioned daily by supporters of authoritarianism, it is never useless to remind this. And systematically yielding to China’s economic pressure is a sign of weakness. It is admitting that what we believe is worth less than what we have to sell.”