Kylian Mbappé Loses Three Major Chinese Commercial Partnerships After Viral Video Sparks Controversy
Kylian Mbappé has seen three significant commercial partnerships in China come to an abrupt end following the release of a video that ignited a fierce debate on social media. On October 27, 2026, beverage giants Dongpeng Beverage, Mengniu, and Milkground officially announced the termination of their agreements with the French football star. The decision follows accusations that Mbappé made offensive remarks regarding Mao Zedong.
The Origin of the Controversy
The incident stems from a video in which Mbappé reacts to a montage comparing him to the former Chinese leader. In the clip, Mbappé refers to Mao Zedong as a "dictator." This comment triggered a wave of backlash on Chinese social media platforms, where Mao Zedong remains a pivotal and revered historical figure. Netizens quickly mobilized, demanding sanctions against the player.
The termination of the deal with Dongpeng Beverage comes approximately six months after the collaboration began. The energy drink brand had prominently featured Mbappé’s image in its advertising campaigns, including on product bottles and promotional materials across Beijing.
Escalation on Social Media and Market Impact
The controversy rapidly gained traction on Weibo, with the hashtag related to the partnership breakup accumulating an estimated 430 million views. The fallout extended beyond the digital sphere, with reports indicating negative repercussions for the stock prices of the affected companies.
In response to the uproar, Mbappé issued an apology, acknowledging that his remarks may have been hurtful. However, the swift termination of these contracts underscores a critical lesson: apologies do not always suffice to mitigate the commercial consequences of a public relations crisis.
Lessons for Brands: Managing Celebrity Risk
This incident serves as a stark reminder for businesses of the inherent risks associated with celebrity endorsements. An ambassador’s public image can quickly turn from an asset into a liability if their statements clash with the cultural or political sensitivities of a specific market.
To safeguard against such risks, brands are advised to:
- Conduct Thorough Reputation Risk Assessments: Evaluate potential cultural and political sensitivities before signing contracts.
- Include Robust Termination Clauses: Ensure contracts have clear provisions for early termination in the event of reputational damage.
- Prepare Rapid Response Protocols: Have a crisis management plan ready to address controversies swiftly and effectively.
