Kylian Mbappé apologized after remarks referring to Mao Zedong as a dictator drew outrage in China. He said the comments were ill-judged and had hurt people in China and Chinese communities worldwide. Three Chinese companies ended sponsorships with him, and Spanish league broadcasts involving him were suspended.
WHO:Kylian Mbappé
WHAT:Mbappé apologized for remarks referring to Mao Zedong as a dictator.
WHEN:Reported Oct 27, 2026 at 5:21 PM ET
WHERE:China
WHY:Backlash in China followed his remarks about Mao Zedong.
How this story developed (showing 2 of 2 earlier reports)
