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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
E. Eduardo Castillo

Several Chinese brands cut ties with Kylian Mbappe after dictator meme comments

Kylian Mbappé Soccer Mao Zedong China Mengniu
Bottles of Dongpeng Beverage Group's 'Bushuila' electrolyte drink featuring French football star Kylian Mbappe on the packaging are displayed at a convenience store in Beijing on October 27, 2026 - (AFP/Getty)

At least three Chinese companies have ended their agreements with Kylian Mbappé after the French soccer star made comments apparently referring to Mao Zedong, the founding leader of Communist China, as a dictator.

Dongpeng, a beverage maker, dairy giant Mengniu and cheese maker Milkground all announced the terminations on Tuesday.

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