Kylian Mbappé and China controversy explained as TV broadcaster announces ban

Real Madrid have issued a formal public apology amid the controversy surrounding star striker Kylian Mbappé and China.

Mbappé has already apologised for his “ill-judged” comments, in which he referred to the late Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a “dictator”. The 27-year-old was subsequently dropped by several Chinese brands, while La Liga also apologised for the “offence” caused by the French international’s remarks.

Real Madrid have yet to issue their own formal apology to Chinese supporters and have now been warned that the broadcast ban on their matches will remain in place until the matter is properly addressed.

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State broadcaster announces ban on Real Madrid matches

The Sports and Youth Programming Center of China Media Group (CMG) has suspended the broadcast of Real Madrid matches with immediate effect, demanding a formal apology before discussions towards a resolution can begin.

The centre oversees sports programming on China Central Television (CCTV), including CCTV-5 and CCTV-5+, which have broadcast La Liga matches.

In a statement released on Wednesday, CMG rejected Real Madrid’s claim that its relationships with Chinese sponsors remained unchanged and insisted the ban would remain in place until the club issued a formal apology.

“Mbappé’s out-of-line remarks have already hurt the Chinese people, crossed a red line and have gone beyond the scope of freedom of expression,” a spokesperson said.

“Mbappé is a Real Madrid player, and the club cannot shirk its responsibility. Therefore, we do not accept Real Madrid’s explanation that Mbappé ‘never intended to offend’ and its assertion that players have the right to express their personal views. We do not accept the club’s attitude.”

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Real Madrid issue statement

Real Madrid finally issued a club statement on the matter on Wednesday in which they apologised for the 'discomfort' caused by their star striker. It remains to be seen whether the apology will be enough to ease tensions and reverse the broadcast ban currently in place.

"Real Madrid C. F. wishes to express its apologies to the Chinese people for any discomfort that may have been caused by the recent words of our player Kylian Mbappé.

"Our club holds deep respect for China, its history, its culture, and its citizens, as well as for the millions of Chinese fans who feel affection and admiration for Real Madrid.

"The club joins the public apology expressed by Kylian Mbappé, in which the player himself has conveyed his regret for his words and reiterated his respect for the Chinese people.

"Real Madrid reaffirms its commitment to the values of respect, coexistence, and understanding among cultures, and expresses its desire to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and affection that unite it with China and its citizens."

Kylian Mbappé and China controversy explained

The controversy stems from Mbappé’s recent appearance on French talk show The Bridge, during which he was asked about viral internet memes featuring him. The Real Madrid star has earned the nickname “dictator” because of his considerable influence in football, a comparison frequently referenced in online posts.

Mbappé said: “The meme that makes me laugh the most is the one where there’s a video of a guy, I think it’s a Chinese dictator.” The clip then cuts to a meme showing Mbappé’s face superimposed on that of Mao.

The joke sparked outrage in China, where Mao remains a significant historical figure more than 50 years after his death. Mao founded the People’s Republic of China in 1949 and remains a prominent figure in the country’s history, despite the widespread suffering associated with his rule.

“My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world,” Mbappé said in a statement. “I apologise to everyone my words have upset.”

Beyond the broadcast ban, Chinese companies Dongpeng Beverage, Mengniu and Milkground have also announced the termination of their commercial partnerships with Mbappé following the incident.

Real Madrid could also face commercial consequences, with China reportedly accounting for 10–15% of the club’s international merchandise sales. The club is also entitled to a share of Mbappé’s image-rights revenue, potentially creating further financial implications if the controversy affects commercial partnerships or sales.

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