Real Madrid and Barcelona Face Fallout From Mbappe's Mao Comments
si.com —
Chinese state broadcaster CCTV suspended coverage of all La Liga matches, including Barcelona's Saturday game, following Kylian Mbappé's comments about Mao Zedong. The fallout extends beyond Real Madrid despite apologies from the player and club. Mbappé described Mao as a "Chinese dictator" in a social media clip, prompting China's foreign ministry response and national brands to cut ties. Spanish outlet EFE confirmed no La Liga fixtures aired on CCTV, with Real Madrid's Sunday match also absent. Real Madrid manager José Mourinho defended Mbappé, citing "dangers of today's world" and praising the club's immediate response. The dispute could cost La Liga clubs significant broadcasting revenue if the suspension continues.