Kylian Mbappé loses China deals after Mao Zedong joke backlash

Kylian Mbappé lost two Chinese sponsorships on Tuesday after a video spread online showing him appear to joke about former leader Mao Zedong. Energy‑drink maker Dongpeng and dairy giant Mengniu said they were ending their contracts with the 25‑year‑old football star, citing remarks that offended Chinese national sentiment. The companies announced the terminations on their official Weibo accounts and removed Mbappé from all current advertising campaigns.

China is a crucial market for global athletes, and Mbappé’s deals with Dongpeng and Mengniu were signed as part of a broader push to tap the country’s massive consumer base. The French forward’s rise to fame after the 2018 World Cup and his 2022 World Cup triumph made him a coveted face for Chinese brands seeking a youthful, international image. However, Chinese authorities tightly regulate any perceived disrespect toward the nation’s history or symbols. Recent years have seen similar fallout for foreign stars, including a temporary ban on Messi’s brand ambassadorship after a political comment. In this climate, a joke about Mao – a figure still protected by law and public sentiment – is enough to trigger swift corporate action.

Dongpeng’s statement said the “inappropriate remarks” contradicted the company’s values and “cannot be tolerated.” Mengniu added that it “respectfully terminates the partnership to uphold public trust.” Mbappé’s agent released a brief apology on social media, saying the clip was taken out of context and that the player “deeply regrets any offense caused.” The French Football Federation has not commented, but analysts warn the loss could dent Mbappé’s earnings, as Chinese sponsorships typically account for a sizable share of a top player’s off‑field income. The incident also serves as a warning to other athletes and brands about the delicate balance between global fame and local sensitivities, especially as China tightens its cultural and commercial regulations.