Real Madrid superstar, Kylian Mbappé, has issued an apology to the Chinese people regarding a joke centered on an internet meme.
Mbappé apologised after China cut ties with everything that has to do with the Frenchman, including sponsorship deals.
It all started during an appearance on the French television program, The Bridge, where Kylian Mbappé was questioned about which meme featuring himself he found most amusing.
His response was, “The one that made me laugh the most was the one where they put my face on a Chinese dictator. I use it a lot with my friends.”
The image in question was reportedly based on Mao Zedong, who governed China from 1949 until his death in 1976.
Kylian Mbappé’s company, Interconnected Ventures, issued the apology on Tuesday in French, Chinese and English.
Mbappé described his remarks as poorly considered.
He said, “In a recent media appearance, I responded to an image depicting myself. My remarks were poorly considered, and I now recognize that they caused distress to numerous individuals in China and within Chinese diaspora communities globally.
“I extend my sincere apologies to all those affected by my statements. Such an outcome was entirely contrary to my intentions. I maintain profound admiration for the Chinese people and their cultural heritage, and I express my genuine remorse.”
LaLiga released a separate apology, emphasizing that the remarks were personal in nature and did not represent the league or its member clubs.
President Javier Tebas expressed regret for the harm caused and announced the implementation of an educational protocol developed collaboratively with clubs and players.
China Media Group, which oversees the state television broadcaster, CCTV, halted the broadcast of LaLiga matches and suspended adverts featuring Kylian Mbappé.
It demanded formal apologies from LaLiga, Mbappé and Real Madrid as prerequisites for resuming discussion.