Mbapp dropped: major Chinese brands drop ties as backlash grows over Mao joke

How the controversy spread

The dispute gained attention on Monday night after Chinese football forum Dongqiudi described the comments as “inappropriate” and said they “hurt the feelings of Chinese people.” The comments allegedly referred to Mao Zedong, the late Chinese leader. Some Weibo users have shared clips with the meme blurred and references to Mao redacted. That has left people questioning what Mbappé said and seeking more information about the remarks.

Brands respond to criticism

Chinese fans have accused Mbappé of benefiting from the Chinese market while making comments that offend the public. As online anger grew, several brands cut ties with him, though their statements did not explicitly mention the video.

Drinks company Dongpeng said it opposed and had a zero-tolerance policy toward behaviour that offends national sentiment. The BBC has contacted Mbappé and Real Madrid for comment.

A nickname with wider context

Mbappé’s nickname, “the dictator,” is a popular meme and running joke linked to his influence. In one clip, an image resembling Mao is superimposed on his face as he trails off.

France teammate Ousmane Dembele also played on the nickname trend during the 2026 World Cup, calling him “Mobut,” a reference to former Democratic Republic of Congo ruler Mobutu Sese Seko. Dembele said there was a less funny side, given the harm such figures had caused throughout history.

China’s market and Mao’s legacy

China is a major market for international sports stars. Homegrown brands have signed multimillion-dollar endorsement deals with Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Stephen Curry.