Real Madrid has released an official statement in response to comments made online by France international striker Kylian Mbappé. The remark included a joke making fun of Mao Zedong, and Mbappe's comments came after he called a meme with his face superimposed on an image of Mao Zedong "the funniest." In response, major Chinese food manufacturers Dongpeng Beverage and Meng Dairy Industry have declared Mbappe an act that "offends public sentiment" and have announced plans to immediately end their cooperative relationship.
Real apologized, saying, ``We deeply apologize for causing discomfort to the people of China,'' and reaffirmed the club's respect for China. "Our club has deep respect for the country of China, its history, culture and people, and we extend the same respect to our millions of Chinese fans," the club said in a statement, expressing support for Mbappe's apology. Furthermore, he expressed his intention to strengthen friendship with China, valuing the values of respect, coexistence, and cross-cultural understanding.
According to multiple Spanish media outlets, China's state broadcaster has stopped broadcasting La Liga matches in response to Mbappé's comments. A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs commented that they "place great importance" on Mbappé's apology, but it is unclear when the suspension of broadcasting will be lifted. Mbappe himself posted an apology on his official social media, regretting that he and the club had caused any offense.
This incident once again highlighted the sensitivity of international sentiment in the soccer world. Real Madrid has indicated that it will continue to be cautious about what it says and does in order to maintain its relationship with international fans. Whether China will lift its suspension of broadcasting is expected to depend on future diplomatic developments.