Real Madrid issued a formal public apology to the people of China on Wednesday after backlash over Kylian Mbappe's comments about Mao Zedong. China Media Group confirmed that it had received Real Madrid's formal apology.
What Mbappe said
During an online interview, Mbappe referenced a meme depicting himself as Mao Zedong and referred to Mao Zedong as a "Chinese dictator". Mbappe released a statement on Tuesday acknowledging his mistake. He said: "I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities."
Real Madrid's statement
In its official statement on Wednesday, Real Madrid C.F. said: "Real Madrid C.F. wishes to express its apologies to the Chinese people for any distress that may have been caused by the recent remarks made by our player, Kylian Mbappe."
Real Madrid C.F. also said: "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 statement added: "The club joins the public apology expressed by Kylian Mbappe, in which the player himself has conveyed his regret for his words and reiterated his respect for the Chinese people."
Real Madrid C.F. also said: "Real Madrid reaffirms its commitment to the values of respect, coexistence, and cross-cultural understanding, and expresses its desire to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and affection that unite it with China and its citizens."
Broadcast and commercial fallout
GOAL reported that Mbappe lost brand deals with at least three Chinese companies, including Dongpeng Beverage, Mengniu, and Milkground. GOAL reported that China Media Group suspended broadcasts of La Liga fixtures and any matches featuring Mbappe.
Further responses
According to Associated Press as cited by GOAL, China Media Group demanded formal apologies from Mbappe, Real Madrid, and La Liga. GOAL said La Liga have also formally apologised. GOAL reported that an Associated Press report added that China's Foreign Ministry confirmed on Wednesday that they are taking Mbappe's apology "seriously".