China announces Mbappé boycott and termination of commercial contracts with him

Several Chinese companies have announced the termination of their commercial partnerships with French football star Kylian Mbappé, a player for Spain’s Real Madrid, after he stated that he laughs at satirical images depicting him as a dictator and comparing him to Chinese leader Mao Zedong. Many Chinese firms, including the Dongpeng Beverage Group, as well as dairy companies Mengniu and Milkground, decided to end their commercial ties with Mbappé after the French player admitted he laughs at satirical images that liken him to Mao Zedong. Dongpeng issued a statement through its main social media accounts and its brand’s account on the local social network Weibo, confirming the immediate severance of its commercial relationship with the player and emphasizing “zero tolerance for behaviors that harm national sentiments,” although it did not specify the exact reasons behind the decision. Mengniu and Milkground subsequently joined the campaign, also announcing the end of their collaborations with Mbappé and expressing their rejection of any behavior that offends the feelings of the Chinese people. The statements from the Chinese companies follow Mbappé’s remarks during a recent interview when asked about his favorite meme. The player said, “The person I’ve laughed at the most is the one they use my face for, portraying me as a Chinese dictator, which I often joke about with my friends.” In his remarks, Mbappé did not specifically name any leader. In recent months, a meme featuring Real Madrid’s player with his face superimposed onto an image of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong has become widespread on social media among fans mocking the French footballer.