The French footballer’s statement has triggered numerous reactions to social networks in China, while the country’s state broadcaster has decided to suspend the broadcast of Spanish championship matches.
The debate has started after an interview with Mbupen on the French show “The Bridge.” During the conversation, the assailant mentioned a funny photo on the internet, where his face was placed on the body of a person he described as a Chinese dictator, in a reference linked to Mao Zedong.
Comments have caused anger in China, where Mao continues to be a highly sensitive historical figure.
In an official statement, Real Madrid has apologised for any insults his football player’s words may have caused.
Klubi expresses regret and apologises from the Chinese people for any insults caused by our player’s recent comments, Kyian Mbppe, said in the Madrillen Club’s statement.
The day before, Mbpe herself had apologized in French, Chinese, and English.
My commission was well thought out, and now I realize that it has hurt many people in China and Chinese communities worldwide, the assailant has declared it.
After this event, some Chinese companies have discontinued their collaboration with football player.
Also, Chinese state broadcaster CMG, which monitors CCTV television, has announced the suspension of the broadcast of La League matches.
Even Mbppe accounts on Chinese platforms have been blocked or restricted. Meanwhile, some reports by Chinese media have revealed that internationally recognised brands have removed content related to football.
Mbppe’s case is not the first when a popular sports figure causes strong reactions in China. In 2019, a statement by a director of Houston Rockets supporting protests in Hong Kong had brought a break in some sponsorship agreements and suspension of NBA broadcasts on Chinese television.
Source Layer: RTKLive