China suspends LaLiga broadcasts following Kylian Mbappé meme controversy
China Media Group suspended LaLiga broadcasts after Kylian Mbappé's comments on a meme comparing him to Mao Zedong sparked backlash and corporate contract cancellations.
Chinese state broadcaster China Media Group suspended broadcasts of Spain's LaLiga following backlash over remarks by Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé regarding an internet meme comparing him to former leader Mao Zedong.
The controversy prompted several Chinese companies to terminate sponsorship deals with the French footballer. China's Foreign Ministry subsequently warned that actions hurting the feelings of the Chinese people would face public rejection.
In response, LaLiga and its president, Javier Tebas, issued formal apologies to the Chinese public, expressing regret over the offense caused and confirming ongoing communications with Chinese partners to resolve the situation.
Sources: El Mundo, La Vanguardia, Marca, Canarias7, RTBF Info
Sources
- Canarias7 — China veta las emisiones de LaLiga por el meme de 'Mbappé dictador' que le convierte en Mao Zedong
- La Vanguardia — China veta los partidos de Mbappé en LaLiga tras la polémica por el 'meme' del “dictador”
- El Mundo — China suspende la emisión de LaLiga tras la polémica con Mbappé y el jugador y Tebas piden disculpas: "Lamentamos el daño que haya podido ocasionar"
- Marca — Tirón de orejas de LaLiga a Mbappé: "Entendemos el daño ocasionado..."<br>
- RTBF Info — Polémique Mbappé - Mao Zedong : la TV publique chinoise a suspendu la diffusion de la Liga espagnole