Real Madrid face complete La Liga broadcast blackout in China as Mbappe controversy deepens

Real Madrid face complete La Liga broadcast blackout in China as Mbappe controversy deepens Real Madrid’s excellent performances on the pitch in recent weeks have been overshadowed by the growing controversy involving Kylian Mbappe and China. What began as a comment made in jest by the French forward has now escalated into a serious commercial problem. According to Mundo Deportivo , both major broadcasters holding La Liga rights in China have imposed restrictions in the aftermath of the controversy. However, while Barcelona and other Spanish clubs will retain some television coverage, Real Madrid matches are set to face a complete blackout. Real Madrid face tougher restrictions than La Liga rivals China Media Group, which operates state broadcaster CCTV, has temporarily suspended coverage of the entire league. The broadcaster also rejected the initial apologies from both Mbappe and Real Madrid, deeming them insufficient given the content. “We will listen to their words, but we will watch their actions much more closely,” an unnamed representative explained. Kylian Mbappe finds himself embroiled in the controversy with China. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images) Meanwhile, Migu, the China Mobile subsidiary holding La Liga broadcasting rights until 2030, has adopted a different approach. The platform intends to continue broadcasting the whole competition, except for matches involving Real Madrid. As a result, Barcelona and the remaining La Liga clubs will retain coverage in China through Migu. Mbappe controversy creates serious commercial concerns The dispute began after Mbappe referred to a meme comparing him to former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, describing the figure as a dictator. Despite subsequently apologising, the Madrid forward has already lost three Chinese sponsorship agreements. La Liga president Javier Tebas also intervened, meeting China’s ambassador to Spain in an attempt to resolve the situation. Javier Tebas tried to resolve the conflict between La Liga and China. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images For Sportel) For Real Madrid, the implications extend beyond Mbappe’s personal endorsements. The club holds a percentage of the player’s image rights, meaning they are also affected financially. Although the precise financial damage remains unclear, prolonged restrictions could weaken Madrid’s commercial presence in China. The club has already expressed its respect for Chinese supporters, but the situation has continued to escalate with no end in sight. Real Madrid will hope to find a resolution to this situation sooner rather than later and restore their diplomatic and commercial relationships with China.