LALIGA has apologised to Chinese fans over comments about a Mao Zedong meme made by Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, distancing Spanish football from the controversy and announcing plans to introduce measures aimed at preventing similar incidents.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, the Spanish football league said the French international’s remarks were made in a personal capacity and did not represent the organisation or its clubs.
“LALIGA deeply regrets the offense caused by Kylian Mbappé's recent comments among Chinese fans,” the league said, adding that it apologised on behalf of the organisation and all its clubs within the scope of its institutional responsibility.
The league reaffirmed its commitment to respecting different cultures, describing respect, coexistence and unity among people of all cultures as fundamental values of Spanish football.
It also expressed respect for China, its institutions and its people, acknowledging the support of millions of fans who follow the competition every week.
LALIGA said it was working with its partners and institutional interlocutors in China to address the situation, while committing to develop an awareness and communication protocol in collaboration with clubs and players.
The proposed measures are intended to promote respect for different cultures and help prevent similar controversies in the future.
The apology follows a backlash over a video circulating online in which Mbappé appeared to describe a meme featuring his face superimposed on former Chinese leader Mao Zedong as an image of a Chinese dictator. The footage’s authenticity could not immediately be independently verified.
Mbappé subsequently apologised for his remarks, acknowledging that his words had hurt people in China and Chinese communities around the world. He said he had not intended to cause offence and expressed respect for the Chinese people and their history.
The controversy has also affected the forward’s commercial relationships in China. Beverage company Dongpeng and dairy businesses Mengniu and Milkground announced the termination of their partnerships with the footballer.
Separately, reports from Chinese media indicated that state broadcaster CCTV had suspended broadcasts of Spanish league matches following the controversy. The reported move raised concerns about the competition’s relationship with its Chinese audience and commercial partners.
LALIGA’s latest statement signals an effort to contain the fallout and protect its longstanding relationship with Chinese supporters. The league said its engagement with partners and institutional representatives in China would continue as it works to address the situation and strengthen cross-cultural awareness within Spanish football.
