La Liga seeks solution after Mbappe comments spark China boycott

French football star Kylian Mbappe, who plays for La Liga club Real Madrid,

has been boycotted by multiple mainland brands and platforms after making

comments alleged to be insulting to China.

La Liga president Javier Tebas said during his meeting with Chinese

Ambassador to Spain Yao Jing, they discussed the situation triggered by

Mbappe's remarks and sought ways to resolve the issue.

He also expressed hope other cooperative projects, including agreements

reached with China Media Group, can continue to succeed.

He added both sides pledged to continue working together to ensure

a single isolated incident does not harm the significant progress already

made or impact Chinese fans who follow La Liga, emphasising China remains

and will continue to be, a strategic partner for La Liga.

This happened after Mbappe mentioned his favourite meme was one created

by netizens where his face was photoshopped onto a "Chinese dictator".

The image he referenced was widely identified as the late leader Mao Zedong.

The comment was immediately criticised for being insulting to China.

China Central Television suspended broadcasts featuring Mbappe,

including La Liga matches, while several mainland brands terminated

their partnerships with him.

Mbappe issued an apology admitting his remarks were inappropriate

and expressing respect for Chinese people and history.

China Media Group noted the apology, saying it will "judge him by

his words and deeds" while urging him to learn from the lesson.

Meanwhile, a People's Daily commentary warned that high fame demands

greater responsibility, noting that crossing basic boundaries of respect

will trigger severe backlash.