Kylian Mbappé's China crisis shows how sensitive Mao's legacy remains

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé is facing a backlash in China after a video circulated of him making light of a meme involving Mao Zedong. The incident has led Chinese brands to drop the French forward, and state media have largely avoided detailing the controversy, highlighting the enduring sensitivity around the former leader's legacy. Mbappé, who missed out on the Ballon d'Or this week, now joins a list of foreign figures accused of hurting Chinese feelings. The episode underscores the risks global celebrities face when engaging with politically charged symbols in the world's second-largest economy. With China being a key market for football and sponsors, the fallout could have commercial implications beyond the immediate brand suspensions. Mbappé's next moves will be closely watched.