Mbappé Dropped by Major Chinese Brands Over Mao Joke Backlash

Major Chinese brands have severed ties with French footballer Kylian Mbappé after he allegedly said his "favourite meme" is "the one where they put my face on a Chinese dictator," a remark widely interpreted as a joke about Mao Zedong. The backlash grew rapidly, prompting brands to drop the player from promotional campaigns.

The controversy stems from a comment Mbappé reportedly made in a video or interview, though the exact context remains unclear. The remark, which surfaced on social media, sparked outrage among Chinese consumers and led to swift commercial repercussions. Neither Mbappé nor the brands involved have issued detailed statements, but the swift removal of his image from Chinese marketing materials underscores the sensitivity of political humor in China.

The incident highlights the growing scrutiny of celebrity conduct in China and the risks global stars face when their words are perceived as disrespectful to Chinese leaders. It also raises questions about free speech versus commercial interests, as brands prioritize damage control. Observers will watch whether Mbappé issues an apology and how this affects his endorsements in one of the world's largest markets.