China’s Tense Relationship with Foreign Celebrities and Free Speech

China’s stance on discussing Chairman Mao remains stringent, as Kylian Mbappé and Real Madrid discovered. The French soccer player inadvertently offended by referencing Mao Zedong, leading to significant backlash and potential financial losses.

Mbappé mentioned a meme in an old interview, calling it his favorite, where his face was placed on a ‘Chinese dictator.’ This remark, although seemingly light-hearted, upset many in China. Real Madrid, the wealthiest soccer club, and Mbappé quickly issued apologies due to economic implications.

Mao’s Complex Legacy

The response underscores Mao’s intricate legacy in China. His reign, filled with policies that historians link to widespread famine and loss, remains sensitive. The Chinese Communist Party holds Mao’s image in high regard but limits open discussions to maintain control over historical narratives.

China’s rapid financial response highlights its influence, with brands and media connections impacted. Several Chinese brands withdrew from deals with Mbappé, and Real Madrid’s matches faced broadcast suspensions.

Economic Implications

China’s market presence in sports and entertainment is vast. Mbappé relies on Chinese revenues, constituting a significant portion of his earnings. A long-term fallout could result in losing over $100 million. Real Madrid also depends on Chinese merchandise sales, notably Mbappé’s shirts.

La Liga’s income heavily relies on international markets like China, contributing significantly to its financial framework. Consequently, prompt apologies were crucial. Statements of regret from La Liga and Real Madrid aim to mend relations.

Precedents and Political Sensitivities

Mbappé’s incident is part of a broader pattern. Celebrities like John Cena and James Harden have previously apologized to protect financial interests linked to China. These instances reveal China’s influence over global narratives, especially when its political boundaries are crossed.

The Streisand Effect in China

China’s leaders have learned the power of unintended attention, known as the Streisand effect. While avoiding discussion of sensitive topics, increased curiosity often arises. Censorship within the Great Firewall prevents widespread details of incidents like Mbappé’s from emerging publicly, yet curiosity persists. Discussions on whether Mao qualifies as a dictator have been fueled indirectly by such censorship.

Outcome and Control

Debates on Mao’s legacy are limited within China, controlled by state-approved narratives. China’s approach opts for silence over positive or negative foreign narratives about Mao. Despite this, China’s economic leverage consistently prevails, securing its position in global discourse.