Real Madrid apologise to China as Kylian Mbappe faces growing backlash

This after widespread criticism, the suspension of La Liga broadcasts and the loss of commercial partnerships.

"Real Madrid wishes to express its apologies to the Chinese people for any offence caused by the recent remarks of our player Kylian Mbappe," the club said in a statement on Wednesday.

"The club joins in the public apology issued by Kylian Mbappe, in which the player himself expressed his regret for his words and reiterated his respect for the Chinese people."

Mbappe had already apologised in French, Chinese and English on Tuesday, admitting that his comments were poorly judged.

"My comment was ill-judged and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world," the 27-year-old said.

The controversy followed a video interview with French show The Bridge, in which Mbappe joked about an internet meme featuring his face superimposed on an image of a man he believed was a Chinese dictator. The remark appeared to refer to Mao, whose rule remains a highly sensitive subject in China.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun acknowledged the apology on Wednesday, saying: "We take seriously the apology the individual concerned has made."

However, the fallout has continued. China Media Group, which oversees public broadcaster CCTV, suspended La Liga broadcasts, while Chinese beverage company Dongpeng and dairy firms Mengniu and Milkground reportedly ended their partnerships with the Real Madrid forward.

Mbappe's accounts on Chinese social media platforms Weibo and Xiaohongshu have also been suspended or restricted. Chinese media reports suggested that major brands, including Dior and Hublot, had removed content featuring the player.

The Global Times criticised Real Madrid, arguing that the club's previous tolerance of such behaviour had contributed to the controversy. Mbappe has long enjoyed considerable popularity in China, featuring prominently in advertising campaigns and being celebrated for his footballing talent.

The incident follows previous tensions between China and international sport, including the suspension of NBA broadcasts in 2019 after Houston Rockets executive Daryl Morey expressed support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement.

Real Madrid face Racing Santander in La Liga on Sunday, but the consequences of Mbappe's comments could extend well beyond the pitch.