Real Madrid has issued an official apology to the Chinese people regarding the controversy sparked by Kylian Mbappé’s remarks, after the fallout from the crisis extended to La Liga match broadcasts and the player’s commercial relations in the Asian market.
The club published a statement joining the apology previously issued by its French forward, reaffirming its deep respect for China and its fans, and its desire to preserve the bonds linking the institution to the country.
Real Madrid stated: “The club wishes to extend its apologies to the Chinese people for any distress that may have been caused by the recent words of our player Kylian Mbappé.”
It added: “Our club holds profound respect for China, its history, culture, and citizens, as well as for the millions of Chinese fans who harbor love and appreciation for Real Madrid.”
The statement continued: “The club joins the public apology issued by Kylian Mbappé, in which he expressed regret over his words and reaffirmed his respect for the Chinese people.”
It concluded: “Real Madrid reiterates its commitment to the values of respect, coexistence, and cross-cultural understanding, and expresses its desire to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and affection uniting it with China and its citizens.”
The crisis originated from an interview in which Mbappé discussed a meme showing his face on the body of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, using the description of a “Chinese dictator,” which triggered widespread outrage in the country.
China Media Group suspended the broadcast of La Liga matches and content related to the French star, while major Chinese companies terminated their commercial agreements with him, prior to the player issuing his apology in French, English, and Chinese.
Efforts to contain the crisis also extended to La Liga and its president, Javier Tebas, who met with the Chinese ambassador to Spain, while the league announced the preparation of an awareness and communication protocol in cooperation with clubs and players to prevent similar incidents in the future.
