Chinese state broadcaster suspends all LaLiga coverage after Mbappé controversy

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV has not shown any LaLiga match since suspending its coverage last Monday, according to Marca, after comments made by Kylian Mbappé relating to a meme connected to Mao Zedong. None of the Friday or Saturday fixtures — including Villarreal–Espanyol, Levante–Atlético de Madrid, Rayo Vallecano–Celta de Vigo, Real Betis–Málaga and Barcelona–Alavés — appeared on CCTV's channels or its official schedule, as confirmed by EFE.

The controversy stems from an interview Mbappé gave to 'The Bridge', a programme on the ESN YouTube channel, in which a rapid-fire question-and-answer format prompted the Real Madrid forward to make a remark that was widely shared in China via a meme referencing the former leader.

Streaming platform Migu initially continued to broadcast LaLiga games after CCTV's suspension, but has since removed Real Madrid's upcoming match from its own schedule as well, deepening the broadcast blackout in what is one of football's largest potential markets.

Mbappé, 27, has been in outstanding form for Real Madrid this season, scoring 11 goals in 10 appearances. The financial implications of a prolonged Chinese broadcast ban could be substantial for both Real Madrid and LaLiga.