In China, public apologies on the social network Weibo have become a common form of contrition for foreign companies and public figures accused of offending the Chinese people. The practice has drawn comparisons with the historic penance of Henry IV at Canossa, although a digital apology does not necessarily guarantee that the controversy will be forgiven.
The latest case involves French footballer Kylian Mbappé, who apologized on Tuesday, October 27, after remarks in which he associated Mao Zedong, without naming him, with a “Chinese dictator.” The Chinese government said it was taking the apology “seriously,” but the response did not immediately end the dispute.
On Sunday, November 1, state broadcaster CCTV did not televise matches from La Liga, the Spanish championship in which Mbappé plays for Real Madrid. The games were available through the Migu streaming platform, with the exception of Real Madrid’s match.
The episode illustrates the sensitivity surrounding China’s national narrative and the dependence of international brands and personalities on access to the country’s market. From football stars to companies such as Hello Kitty’s operator, repeated apologies reflect the pressure placed on foreign actors when their statements or campaigns are viewed as offensive in China.
Sources: Le Monde Sport.