Kylian Mbappé’s China crisis shows how sensitive Mao’s legacy remains

The Irish Times · Irlanda · Prensahace 7 horas

It’s been a bad start to the week for the France forward Kylian Mbappé. He missed out on joining the elite roster of Ballon d’Or winners, and instead became the latest high-profile addition to a far less illustrious list – that of foreign brands and individuals charged with “hurting the feelings of the Chinese people”.

The saga began when a video of the Real Madrid player making light of a meme involving him and China’s former leader Mao Zedong began spreading. Within hours Mbappé found himself condemned online, before being unceremoniously dropped by brands, then held responsible for state television suspending the entire top Spanish league from its schedule.

On Tuesday Mbappé apologised – “My comment was ill-judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China – as did La Liga, which released a statement saying it “deeply regrets the offence that Kylian Mbappé’s recent comments have…

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More than time: watchmaker Nomadic secures top cross-border award

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The Irish Times · Irlandahace 3 horas

Deportes

First works to enable extension of Dart line to Kildare and Meath to start this weekend

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The Irish Times · Irlandahace 6 horas

Deportes

Win an overnight stay for two at Barberstown Castle with breakfast and dinner

Step into the magic of Christmas at Barberstown Castle, a romantic four-star hotel set within a magnificent 13th-century castle in Straffan, Co. Kildare, just 30 minutes from Dublin. With roaring log fires, elegant interiors and 20 acres of beautiful private grounds, Barberstown Castle is the perfect setting to enjoy the festive season. From delicious Christmas dining and celebratory gatherings to cosy drinks in the Garden Bar, guests can savour the warmth and charm of an authentic Irish castle. At the heart of the experience is The Barton Rooms, Barberstown Castle’s award-winning restaurant, named Good Food Ireland Hotel Restaurant of the Year 2025. Showcasing the very best of Irish produce, it offers memorable dining throughout the festive season and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a special Christmas meal, a romantic winter escape, a relaxed lunch or dinner, or simply somewhere beautiful to enjoy a drink by the fire, Barberstown Castle offers…

The Irish Times · Irlandahace 6 horas

Deportes

Bridesmaid-to-be feared missing sister’s wedding over new holiday policy at work

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The Irish Times · Irlandahace 6 horas