Real Madrid have issued a public apology to the Chinese people following controversial comments by forward Kylian Mbappé that sparked a backlash in China and led to the termination of several commercial partnerships.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Spanish club expressed regret over the incident and reaffirmed its respect for China, its culture and its supporters.
“Real Madrid CF wishes to express its apologies to the Chinese people for any discomfort caused by the recent words of our player Kylian Mbappé,” the statement read.
The club added that it “maintains a 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 controversy followed the circulation of a video in which Mbappé appeared to refer to Chinese leader Mao Zedong as a dictator while discussing an internet meme featuring his face. The comments drew widespread criticism from Chinese fans and businesses.
The France captain subsequently apologised, describing his remarks as “ill-judged” and acknowledging that they had hurt people in China and Chinese communities around the world.
Chinese beverage company Dongpeng and dairy producer Mengniu ended their commercial partnerships with the 27-year-old following the backlash. Reports also indicated that Chinese state television had suspended broadcasts involving Mbappé and La Liga.
Real Madrid said it supported the forward’s public apology and reiterated its commitment to “respect, coexistence and understanding between cultures.”
The club also expressed its desire to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Real Madrid and its millions of supporters in China.
