Mbappe faces backlash in China for meme fiasco
Al Jazeera
Last updated: October 29, 2026
French football star Kylian Mbappe is facing significant backlash in China due to a controversial meme he shared. This incident has led to serious repercussions for his endorsements within the country.
- Mbappe shared a video on his social media platforms that was widely perceived as racist by Chinese audiences. The video featured a clip of a user impersonating a Chinese person with exaggerated features and speaking in a stereotypical accent.
- Following the backlash, three major Chinese brands have officially terminated their sponsorship deals with Mbappe. These brands are believed to be the sportswear company Peak, the dairy producer Mengniu, and the electric vehicle manufacturer BYD.
- The partnerships were reportedly lucrative, underscoring the economic impact of the controversy on the footballer. Chinese fans and media expressed disappointment and anger over the insensitivity displayed in the shared content.
- The incident highlights the cultural sensitivities that public figures must navigate when engaging with international audiences, particularly on social media. The termination of these deals represents a significant financial and reputational blow for Mbappe in the important Chinese market.
