French Football Chief Urges Resolution Over Mbappe’s China Remarks
Philippe Diallo says Kylian Mbappe should be allowed to move on after apologising for referring to Mao Zedong as a dictator, as Spanish football works to manage the fallout.
Key points
- Philippe Diallo says Mbappe's apology should put an end to the controversy.
- Real Madrid and La Liga officials have issued apologies and met the Chinese ambassador.
- Chinese brands and broadcasters have severed ties with the player following the remarks.
French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo has stated that Kylian Mbappe should be permitted to move forward following the recent controversy surrounding remarks made about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. Diallo emphasised that the France captain had intended no offence and had already issued an apology.
The controversy arose from a French podcast appearance in which the 27-year-old forward discussed internet memes depicting his face photoshopped onto political figures, referencing a running joke about his perceived influence within his club teams. The comments drew sharp criticism in China, where satire regarding modern China's founding leader is strictly taboo.
In response to the backlash, both Real Madrid and La Liga issued apologies, while league president Javier Tebas established a crisis unit. Tebas also held a meeting with the Chinese ambassador to Spain, Yao Jing, as Spanish authorities sought to mitigate the diplomatic and commercial fallout.
The incident underscores the delicate balance athletes and international brands must maintain within the Chinese market. Following the remarks, Chinese broadcaster Migu cancelled the scheduled broadcast of Real Madrid's upcoming fixture against Racing Santander, while several major Chinese brands terminated their commercial partnerships with the player.
Despite the commercial consequences, Chinese Foreign Ministry officials indicated that the government is taking the player's apology seriously. Diallo expressed optimism that the situation would soon de-escalate, allowing the forward to concentrate fully on his sporting commitments.
