Mbappe Loses Chinese Sponsors After Remarks About Mao Zedong
Kylian Mbappe, one of the world’s most famous footballers, is facing a growing backlash in China. Two major Chinese companies have ended their partnerships with him. The companies are Dongpeng, a well-known ceramics and home products brand, and Mengniu, one of China’s largest dairy producers.
The reaction follows remarks attributed to Mbappe about Mao Zedong, the founder of modern China. The comments appeared in a video that spread quickly online. The video went viral, and many Chinese internet users reacted with anger. The companies moved fast to distance themselves from the player.
Why the Remarks Caused Outrage
Mao Zedong remains a deeply respected figure in China. He led the country through revolution and is officially honored as the founder of the People’s Republic. Criticism or jokes about him are treated very seriously. Many Chinese people see such comments as an insult to the nation itself, not just to one person.
That is why the video struck a nerve. On Chinese social media, users called for brands to act. Sponsors in China often face strong pressure when public opinion turns. Companies that stay silent can become targets of boycotts themselves. Dongpeng and Mengniu chose to cut ties quickly, likely to protect their reputations with local customers.
A Big Financial Blow
China is a huge market for global sports stars. Mbappe has built a large fan base there, and Chinese brands have paid well to be linked with him. Losing two sponsors is a serious setback. It also sends a signal to other companies. More brands may now review their deals with him.
This is not the first time a celebrity has faced this kind of situation. In recent years, several international stars and companies have been dropped in China after comments seen as offensive to national sentiments. The pattern is consistent. When public anger rises online, sponsors act fast to avoid damage.
What Happens Next
Mbappe’s team has not yet given a full public response to the controversy. How he handles the situation will matter. A clear apology or explanation could help calm the reaction. Silence may make things worse, especially in a market as important as China.
For investors, the story is a reminder of a broader risk. Star power can boost a brand, but it can also backfire. Sponsorship deals carry reputational risk, and social media can turn a single video into a global issue within hours. Companies with exposure to celebrity endorsements should watch how this case develops.
The episode also shows how quickly sports and politics can collide. Mbappe is a football hero to millions. But in China, his future with local sponsors now looks uncertain. The next few weeks will show whether the damage can be repaired or whether more brands will follow Dongpeng and Mengniu.
