A LaLiga match between Real Racing Club de Santander and Real Madrid was blacked out on Chinese television as controversy surrounding a Kylian Mbappe meme referencing Mao Zedong continues to escalate. The fixture, part of the 2026-27 LaLiga EA Sports season, was not broadcast in China following backlash over social media content involving the French forward.
The blackout reflects growing sensitivity in Chinese media regarding political imagery and historical figures. Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid in 2024, has been at the center of online debate after a meme comparing him to the former Chinese leader circulated widely. Chinese authorities have previously restricted sports broadcasts over similar political sensitivities.
Neither LaLiga nor Real Madrid has issued an official statement on the broadcast suspension. The match proceeded as scheduled in Spain, with Real Madrid facing Racing Santander in league action.
