The fallout from Kylian Mbappe’s controversial reference to Mao Zedong continues to escalate, with Chinese broadcasters blocking La Liga coverage and media outlets stepping up their criticism of Real Madrid.
Despite apologies from both Mbappe and La Liga president Javier Tebas, the reaction in China has shown little sign of easing. Real Madrid have also issued an official apology, but their handling of the incident has become a major point of contention, with criticism now extending beyond the player himself.
Real Madrid faces growing criticism from Chinese media
According to MARCA, several Chinese broadcasters and media organisations have turned their attention to Real Madrid following the Mbappe controversy. Much of the criticism centres on the club's delayed response, with Madrid taking almost 48 hours to publish an official statement, which arrived on the afternoon of October 28.
The delay attracted particular attention because both Mbappe and Tebas had already apologised. During that period, Madrid was accused of publishing a video celebrating Mbappe's 100th goal and informing the Spanish press that the player had spoken "only in a personal capacity".
The Global Times subsequently insisted that Real Madrid "must take responsibility and implement measures". Meanwhile, the Zhejiang Propaganda Department accused the club of repeatedly distancing itself from controversial incidents before eventually falling silent.
Mbappe controversy sparks accusations of double standards
Chinese media have also highlighted what they consider an inconsistent approach from Real Madrid when dealing with controversial incidents involving their players.
Critics have contrasted the club's delayed reaction to Mbappe's comments with its immediate and forceful response in February, when Vinicius Jr was subjected to a racist incident. On that occasion, Madrid acted quickly, whereas their initial silence over the latest controversy has drawn accusations of a double standard.
The criticism has also raised questions about the club's relationship with China, where its commercial and sporting popularity makes the situation particularly sensitive.
Real Madrid faces financial consequences in China
The potential damage extends well beyond reputational concerns. China accounts for an estimated 10 to 15 percent of Real Madrid's international merchandise sales, with Mbappe's shirt currently the club's best-selling jersey.
Madrid also has almost 97 million supporters in China, making it their largest fanbase outside Spain. The scale of that following underlines the importance of maintaining strong relationships with the country's broadcasters, commercial partners, and supporters.
The consequences are already becoming visible. CCTV broadcasts have been suspended, sponsors are reportedly reassessing their relationships with the club, and a potential Real Madrid tour of China has allegedly been shelved.
The Beijing warning suggests the Mbappe saga is far from over
Despite the apologies issued by Mbappe, Tebsa, and Real Madrid, the situation remains unresolved. Chinese authorities have made it clear that the initial expressions of regret may not be enough to bring the controversy to an end.
Beijing's Foreign Ministry described the apology as merely "a starting point", suggesting that further action or clarification could still be expected.
With broadcasters, media organisations and commercial partners all involved in the fallout, Real Madrid could face a prolonged dispute in one of their most important international markets.