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Kylian Mbappé apologizes for Mao Zedong comment, loses Chinese endorsements

By PulseAugur Editorial · [1 sources] ·

Soccer star Kylian Mbappé has apologized for remarks where he seemingly referred to Mao Zedong as a dictator, a comment that led to backlash and the termination of endorsement deals with three Chinese companies. Mbappé expressed deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, stating his words were ill-judged and not intended to cause offense. Chinese companies Dongpeng, Mengniu, and Milkground announced they were ending their partnerships with the athlete, citing opposition to actions that hurt national sentiment. Social media platforms also reacted, with one removing promotional materials and banning new followers for Mbappé. AI

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Kylian Mbappé apologizes for Mao Zedong comment, loses Chinese endorsements

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COVERAGE [1]

  1. Fortune TIER_1 English(EN) · E. Eduardo Castillo, The Associated Press ·

    ‘I think he was a Chinese dictator’: Kylian Mbappé backtracks on stray comment after he starts losing endorsements overseas

    The French football superstar was asked on a French TV show about his favorite meme of himself, and he seemed to describe one based on Mao Zedong.

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