Kylian Mbappé sparks furious China boycott as La Liga forced into emergency apology

Mbappé sparks furious China boycott as La Liga issue emergency apology

Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé has sparked a major commercial crisis after Chinese conglomerates Dongpeng, Mengniu, and Milkground terminated their sponsorship deals following his controversial remarks labelling former leader Mao Zedong a "dictator". Facing a potential broadcasting blackout by Chinese television networks, La Liga and president Javier Tebas issued an urgent official apology. The 27-year-old forward also immediately released a public apology in French, Chinese, and English, admitting his comments were thoughtless.

La Liga stars dominate supporting accolades at 2026 Ballon d'Or

Despite Harry Kane claiming the 2026 Ballon d'Or in London, La Liga's elite swept the supporting accolades. Unai Simón claimed the Yashin Trophy, Luis de la Fuente was named Men's Coach of the Year, and Lamine Yamal scooped the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year. Crucially, organizers revealed that Mbappé had been leading the race after netting 42 goals for his club and 10 at the World Cup, before ultimately finishing as runner-up.