{
  "id": 16890549,
  "title": "Real Madrid join Kylian Mbappe in China apology after striker's 'ill-judged' remarks",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/28/real-madrid-join-kylian-mbappe-in-china-apology-after-strikers-ill-16890549",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-28T10:32:55.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National Business",
    "slug": "the-national-business",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/sport/football/2026/10/28/real-madrid-join-kylian-mbappe-in-china-apology-after-strikers-ill-judged-remarks/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Real Madrid have issued an apology following striker Kylian Mbappe's ill-considered remarks about late Chinese leader Mao Zedong. The controversy originated from a French podcast where Mbappe was heard on a video meme, suggesting the face of a Chinese dictator was photoshopped onto his own. Both Mbappe and the Spanish club released statements expressing regret and reaffirming their respect for China and its people. Mbappe personally apologized, acknowledging his words caused offense and that he has deep respect for China and its culture. The La Liga president met with the Chinese ambassador to discuss the matter. Chinese officials have noted and appreciated the apology, maintaining that their relationship as a strategic partner remains strong and unaffected.",
  "summary": "Real Madrid have issued an apology as French forward Kylian Mbappe faces a backlash over his comments regarding late Chinese leader Mao Zedong. In a video on a French podcast that has since been removed, Mbappe was heard discussing a meme where his face had been photoshopped on another person. Mbappe reportedly said it was of “some guy – I think he's a Chinese dictator”. Mbappe and Real Madrid…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}