China’s state broadcaster CCTV did not air a Real Madrid match on Sunday after the club’s star striker Kylian Mbappé apologized for a meme that superimposed his face onto a figure resembling Mao Zedong. The incident prompted China Media Group, CCTV’s parent organisation, to announce a suspension of all La Liga broadcasts, though it has not said how long the blackout will last.

What sparked the controversy?

Mbappé’s comment, made on the French talk show The Bridge, described the meme as the one that “makes [him] laugh the most.” He later called the remark “ill‑judged” and said he now understood it hurt many people in China and Chinese communities worldwide. The backlash was swift, with Chinese authorities and brands reacting strongly.

Official response from Chinese media

China Media Group confirmed that it would suspend broadcasts of Spanish football’s La Liga matches as a direct response to the incident. The organisation noted that it had previously demanded apologies from the three parties involved—Mbappé, Real Madrid and La Liga—calling such apologies “an absolute prerequisite” for moving past the controversy. While the group acknowledged the apologies, it declined to comment on the duration of the broadcast suspension.

Historical precedents

This is not the first time Chinese broadcasters have pulled sports coverage over political issues. In October 2019, CCTV removed NBA games for a year after Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey tweeted support for Hong Kong protesters. Morey later backtracked, citing the need to consider other perspectives and to respect Chinese fans and sponsors.

Impact on the sport and commercial partners

Mbappé’s remark also led to the loss of several Chinese endorsement deals, reflecting how quickly political sensitivities can affect commercial relationships in China. Real Madrid’s match against Racing Santander, which ended 3‑0 with goals from Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Yan Diomande, proceeded despite the broadcast blackout, highlighting the disconnect between on‑field events and media availability for Chinese audiences.

Broader implications

China’s reaction underscores the country’s strict control over media narratives, especially when they intersect with revered historical figures such as Mao Zedong. While Mao’s legacy includes periods of severe hardship, he remains a symbol of the Communist Party’s founding, and any perceived disrespect can trigger swift governmental and corporate action.

What’s next?

The uncertainty surrounding the length of the La Liga suspension leaves fans and stakeholders guessing about when normal coverage might resume. Observers will be watching for any further statements from China Media Group or the Chinese foreign ministry, which has already taken Mbappé’s apology “seriously.”

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