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Kylian Mbappé's Controversial Mao Comment Sparks Chinese Backlash and Apology

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Kylian Mbappé's Controversial Mao Comment Sparks Chinese Backlash and Apology

China made Mbappé apologise - but many don't know exactly what he said

BBC

China made Mbappé apologise - but many don't know exactly what he said

His comment about Chinese leader Mao sparked anger but censorship left many wondering what exactly happened.

Kylian Mbappe apologises for an apparent reference to Mao as a 'dictator'

CNBC-TV18

Kylian Mbappe apologises for an apparent reference to Mao as a 'dictator'

"My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world," Mbappe said in a statement Tuesday.

Mbappe faces China backlash over Mao remark as major sponsors cut ties

Business Standard

Mbappe faces China backlash over Mao remark as major sponsors cut ties

Kylian Mbappe's remarks on Mao Zedong sparked a backlash in China, prompting brands to sever sponsorship ties and highlighting growing political risks for global companies.

Mbappé Apologizes After ‘Dictator’ Mao Comment: What to Know About the Chinese Backlash

TIME

Mbappé Apologizes After ‘Dictator’ Mao Comment: What to Know About the Chinese Backlash

A girl walks past an advertisement for an energy drink featuring French soccer player Kylian Mbappé in Wuhan, China, on July 7, 2026. —Wang He—Getty Images French soccer captain and Real Madrid...

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