Mao controversy: FFF president defends Mbappé against China

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, has voiced his support for Kylian Mbappé, at the center of a controversy in China after describing Mao Zedong as a “dictator” during a public speech.

It has been a particularly difficult week for the France captain. Beaten by Harry Kane in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or on Monday evening in London, the Real Madrid striker (27) also triggered a strong reaction in China with his remarks about Mao Zedong. Despite public apologies issued immediately after, the statements had concrete repercussions: several of his commercial partnerships in Asia were affected, as was the La Liga broadcasting contract in the country.

“I saw this controversy, which is certainly a bit too strong,” Philippe Diallo said in an interview with Ouest-France. The official sought to clarify the player’s intentions: “I don’t think Kylian intended, in any way, to damage the image of a Chinese leader, nor to insult or offend the Chinese people. I believe this is a controversy that should not, at least I hope, last.”

Diallo also called for moving past the issue, believing that Mbappé had provided the necessary explanations. “I think Kylian explained very well the context in which his remarks came. He apologized. I believe we should, from now on, leave it at that, so he can continue his season under the best conditions,” he concluded.