The Chinese government has decided to suspend the broadcast of LaLiga on its television channels after the controversial statements by French forward Kylian Mbappé, and has made it clear that Real Madrid's apologies are not enough. China State Radio and Television (CMG) announced that, as of October 26, broadcasts of LaLiga matches, advertisements and any content related to the player and his white club will be interrupted, until an apology is presented that satisfies the Chinese authorities.
The reason for the measure dates back to a comment by Mbappé during an interview in which he mentioned a “meme” in which his face appeared over that of a “Chinese dictator.” Although the footballer did not make direct reference to Mao Zedong, the image that circulated on social networks did imply it. The phrase was perceived as an offense to the sensibilities of the Chinese people and, according to the CMG statement, “transcends the limits of freedom of expression.” The spokesperson for the Sports and Youth Center of the China Media Group stated that Real Madrid, as the owner of the player, cannot evade responsibility for its actions.
Real Madrid and LaLiga have tried to mitigate the crisis. LaLiga president Javier Tebas sent a letter to the CMG in which he described Mbappé's behavior as “unacceptable” and apologized for the offense caused. The club has also requested that a public apology and a written letter be presented on behalf of the player and the club. In response, Mbappé published a statement in French, Chinese and English in which he regretted his words and expressed his “deep respect” for the Chinese people and their history. Despite this, the CMG maintained its position that apologies are not strong enough.
The controversy has had economic repercussions. Mbappé's business deals with Chinese companies such as Dongpeng, Mengniu and Milkground have been broken, and restrictions have been placed on his content on digital platforms in the country. In addition, Tebas met with the Chinese ambassador in Spain, Yao Jing, to seek a solution, while LaLiga maintains a strategic agreement with the Chinese professional league that extends until 2029.
As for the future, the CMG statement makes it clear that, as long as Real Madrid does not offer a satisfactory apology, “there is nothing to talk about.” The suspension of LaLiga broadcasting will continue until the Chinese government's demands are met, which could affect both television coverage and income from broadcast rights and sponsorship in the Chinese market.