Mbappe apologises for remarks, says he has deep respect for Chinese people
French footballer Kylian Mbappe apologised for comments made in a recent interview, saying he realised his words hurt Chinese communities worldwide. China's foreign ministry said remarks that hurt Chinese people's feelings would face resistance. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV suspended broadcasts of
French footballer Kylian Mbappe has issued a statement on social media apologising for remarks he made in a recent interview. In a statement written in French, Chinese and English, Mbappe said he responded to a picture featuring him during an interview but acknowledged his comments were inappropriate. He said he later realised his words had hurt Chinese communities in China and around the world, and apologised to all those affected. The statement emphasised that he holds deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and said he was truly sorry.
Before the statement was released, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun was asked about Mbappe's remarks and reports that several Chinese companies had terminated brand endorsement contracts with the player. Guo said the ministry had taken note of the reports and stressed that any words or actions that hurt the feelings of the Chinese people would naturally face joint resistance from all sectors of Chinese society.
Mbappe currently plays for Real Madrid in Spain's La Liga. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV said that in response to Mbappe's serious negative behaviour concerning China, it had from the previous evening completely suspended broadcasts of matches involving La Liga and Mbappe. All advertisements featuring Mbappe had also been taken down.