La Liga and Javier Tebas apologise to Chinese fans over Kylian Mbappe comments

La Liga and its president Javier Tebas have apologised to Chinese supporters for offence caused by recent comments made by Kylian Mbappe, stressing that the remarks were made in a personal capacity and did not represent the organisation.

In a statement, La Liga said it was apologising on behalf of itself and all its clubs, accepting its institutional responsibility for addressing the issue.

“Respect, coexistence and fraternity between people from all cultures are fundamental values in Spanish football,” it said. “We reaffirm our respect for China, its institutions and its people, as well as our commitment to the millions of fans who support us every week.”

Tebas also issued a personal statement in which he expressed La Liga’s regret over the reaction to Mbappe’s comments.

“We at La Liga would like to express our deepest regret over the statements made by Kylian Mbappe, which caused displeasure and offence among the Chinese people,” Tebas said.

“We fully understand and respect the sensitivity of the Chinese people, and sincerely regret any harm these comments may have caused. On behalf of La Liga, I would like to convey our apologies to everyone who felt offended.”

Tebas said respect for a country’s people, history, culture and institutions was central to La Liga’s international relationships and its wider values.

“For many years, we have built a strong relationship of trust, cooperation and friendship with China, its authorities, sports institutions and audiovisual organisations, and above all with the millions of Chinese fans who follow and enjoy Spanish football,” he added.

“We cannot allow individual comments to damage that relationship, or harm the more than 20 clubs involved in our professional competitions, our partners and, above all, Chinese supporters.”

La Liga said it was taking steps available to it to deal with the situation and reinforce the respect and cultural awareness expected in any conduct connected with its competitions.

“I would personally like to reiterate our utmost respect for China and its people, and our firm intention to continue strengthening relationships that we consider strategic, profound and lasting,” Tebas said.

“An isolated incident cannot put at risk a relationship built over many years, or the bond between Spanish football and millions of Chinese fans.”