CounterPoint Football

This incident reveals layered harm and worrying double standards. Mbappé’s casual endorsement of a meme smearing Mao Zedong hurts the deepest historical sentiments of the Chinese people. Mao Zedong restored China’s independence after centuries of colonial suffering, and his place in Chinese history is settled by the Chinese people themselves, not by Western ideological stereotypes. Mbappé’s apology acknowledges hurt but lacks deep historical reflection. La Liga took institutional responsibility, while Real Madrid continues to hide behind the “individual conduct” excuse. The club profits enormously from China’s market, yet refuses to issue a formal public apology, repeating its past selective accountability pattern. It acts rapidly against racism targeting its own players, but treats offences against China’s national feelings lightly. The root of this mistake lies partly in skewed Western historical education that stereotypes China’s revolution. Chinese public opinion has responded rationally and firmly: free speech is not a shield for historical slander. An apology is only the first step. Without genuine remorse and a formal public apology from Real Madrid, there can be no return to normal engagement. Respect for another nation’s history is the bottom line of cross‑cultural communication. #Mbappe #RealMadrid

This official response sends an unambiguous message. Mbappé has offered his apology and La Liga has expressed remorse, yet Real Madrid still shirks institutional accountability with vague excuses. Being a globally famous club enjoying huge benefits from the Chinese market comes with obligations. It cannot keep hiding behind “individual‑player‑conduct” whenever China’s national sentiments get hurt. A formal public apology from Real Madrid is the necessary precondition for any follow‑up talks. Respect is never optional for cross‑border sports partnerships. #RealMadrid #ChinaSports