Major Chinese brands drop Mbappé as backlash grows over Mao joke
He allegedly said his "favourite meme" is "the one where they put my face on a Chinese dictator".
The recent controversy surrounding French football star Kylian Mbappé's alleged comment about putting his face on a Chinese dictator, specifically referencing Mao Zedong, has sparked significant backlash in China. As a result, several major Chinese brands have dropped Mbappé as an endorser. This development highlights the growing sensitivity of Chinese consumers and brands towards issues related to national pride and politics.
The incident underscores the challenges that global celebrities and brands face in navigating complex cultural and political landscapes, particularly in China. With its large and increasingly nationalistic consumer base, China has become a critical market for many international brands. The swift reaction of Chinese brands to Mbappé's alleged comment demonstrates the potential risks of cultural missteps and the importance of being aware of local sensitivities.
Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how Mbappé and his team respond to the backlash, and whether he will take steps to repair his image in China. Additionally, brands and celebrities will be watching to see how this incident might impact their own marketing strategies and partnerships in China. As the situation continues to unfold, one key question is whether Mbappé's popularity in China will recover, and what this might mean for his future endorsement deals and career prospects in the region.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. BahaNews adds analysis for general news readers.