Mbappe loses Chinese sponsorship deals over Mao Zedong joke video
Two major Chinese brands dropped Kylian Mbappe Tuesday after an unverified video circulated showing the Real Madrid star joking about former leader Mao Zedong. Drinks giant Dongpeng and dairy leader Mengniu both announced immediate termination of cooperation, citing "zero-tolerance policy towards any behaviour that offends national sentiments" and words that "hurt the feelings of the Chinese people."
In the video, Mbappe reportedly called the funniest meme he'd seen one with his face photoshopped onto "some guy — I think he's a Chinese dictator" — an apparent reference to a Mao meme. AFP Fact Check could not verify the video's authenticity. The hashtag "Dongpeng Beverage ends cooperation with Mbappe" topped Weibo trends.
This hit a day after Mbappe lost the Ballon d'Or to Harry Kane. For Nigerian athletes and entertainers targeting the Chinese market, the lesson is clear: cultural sensitivity isn't optional — it's commercial survival. One unverified clip cost a global superstar two blue-chip deals instantly. Chinese brands move fast when national sentiment is triggered, verified or not.
If you're building a brand with international ambitions, what cultural landmines have you mapped in your target markets?