Business · Malaysia Bureau
Chinese brands sever ties with Mbappe over controversial Mao remarks
French football star Kylian Mbappe has lost major Chinese brand endorsements following the circulation of a video in which he allegedly made jokes about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. The sponsorship terminations mark a significant commercial setback for the player in one of the world's largest sports markets.
LSN Malaysia ·
Two prominent Chinese brands announced the termination of their partnership agreements with Mbappe after an online video surfaced showing the Paris Saint-Germain forward apparently making disparaging comments about Mao. The brands cited concerns over remarks that they deemed disrespectful to Chinese national sentiments.
The video's circulation on social media platforms triggered rapid commercial consequences for the 25-year-old athlete. Chinese companies maintain particular sensitivity to public commentary involving historical figures central to the nation's identity, and brand partners frequently respond swiftly to protect their market positioning and corporate image.
The incident underscores the complexities athletes face when operating across different cultural contexts and the significant financial implications of social media content in an increasingly interconnected global sports landscape. Mbappe's endorsement portfolio in China had represented a substantial revenue stream, reflecting his status as one of world football's most commercially valuable players.
The development comes as international sports personalities increasingly navigate heightened scrutiny of their public statements and online presence, with sponsors demonstrating willingness to distance themselves from controversial figures to preserve brand reputation and consumer goodwill in key markets.