Kylian Mbappé Loses Major Sponsorship Deals in China Following Mao Zedong Meme Controversy

Corporate Response to Viral Video

French football superstar Kylian Mbappé has been dropped by two prominent Chinese brands following the circulation of a video in which the Real Madrid forward made remarks perceived as disrespectful toward Mao Zedong, the founding leader of the People's Republic of China. In China, where references to Mao remain a social taboo and sensitive national topic, the reaction from the corporate sector has been swift.

Energy drink manufacturer Dongpeng and dairy producer Mengniu both announced the immediate termination of their partnerships with the 27-year-old athlete. In separate official statements, both companies emphasized a 'zero-tolerance policy' regarding behaviors deemed offensive to the sentiments of the Chinese public. Dongpeng, which utilized AI-generated imagery of Mbappé in its promotional campaigns during this year's FIFA World Cup, confirmed that it was severing all cooperation effective immediately. Mengniu similarly cited the need to protect the 'feelings of the Chinese people' as the reason for ending its commercial ties.

Context of the Remarks

The controversy originated from an online video in which Mbappé identified a specific internet meme as the funniest he had encountered. The meme featured his face digitally superimposed onto an image of a historical figure he described as a 'Chinese dictator.' This was widely interpreted as a reference to existing online content depicting the footballer as Mao Zedong.

This is not the first time the player has addressed similar memes. In a September interview with the French newspaper *L'Equipe*, Mbappé acknowledged the existence of such imagery, distinguishing between lighthearted internet humor and the historical weight associated with dictators. He stated at the time that while some memes are intended for fun, others are 'less funny' due to the historical damage associated with the figures involved.

Historical Precedent

Global sports figures frequently face significant backlash in China when their public comments or actions touch upon topics deemed sensitive by Beijing. Past instances have involved controversies regarding Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Tibet. For example, the NBA faced a year-long suspension of its broadcasting and sponsorship ties in China following a 2019 tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey that expressed support for Hong Kong protestors. The current situation marks a significant shift in Mbappé’s standing within a market where he previously enjoyed immense popularity.