Chinese AI Chatbots Censor Controversy Over Mbappé’s Mao Comments
Chinese AI models restrict information regarding Kylian Mbappé’s controversial remarks about Mao Zedong.
1Mbappé's Controversial Podcast Remark
In mid-October 2026, French footballer Kylian Mbappé appeared on the podcast The Bridge. During the show, he referenced a meme featuring his face superimposed on a figure he identified as a Chinese dictator. This offhand comment regarding Mao Zedong triggered a significant diplomatic storm and widespread condemnation across China.
2Corporate and Diplomatic Backlash
The backlash was swift, leading major Chinese sponsors like Dongpeng Group, Mengniu, and Milkground to terminate partnerships with the Real Madrid star. Furthermore, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs publicly criticized the footballer. Mbappé subsequently issued an apology, which Chinese diplomats stated they were taking seriously.
3AI Censorship Investigation
Observers from France 24 tested Chinese AI chatbots Doubao and DeepSeek to evaluate how they handled inquiries about the incident. Using VPNs to simulate domestic Chinese IP addresses, researchers discovered that these models consistently refused to provide details or labeled the controversy as fake news to avoid repeating the comments.
4Doubao and DeepSeek Responses
When queried from within China, Doubao claimed the question violated usage rules, while DeepSeek dismissed the reports as unverified rumors. These responses highlight a systematic approach to information control. Even when asked about the specific content of Mbappé’s statement, the bots remained vague, refusing to mention the term dictator.
5Dola's Different Behavioral Pattern
ByteDance’s Dola, designed for international users, provided more transparent answers compared to the domestic Doubao model. When accessed from France, Dola confirmed that Mbappé alluded to Mao Zedong being a dictator. This discrepancy demonstrates how Chinese tech companies adapt their AI outputs based on the user's geographical location and jurisdiction.
6The Great Firewall Context
China’s internet is governed by the Great Firewall, which isolates the domestic web from global information flows. AI developers are legally required to ensure their models promote fundamental societal values. Content that tarnishes the image of the nation or threatens social stability is strictly prohibited by these regulatory frameworks.
7Mao’s Role in Xi’s Legitimacy
Expert Marie Holzman notes that Mao Zedong’s legacy is central to President Xi Jinping’s political legitimacy. By adopting Mao’s image, the current leadership makes the former chairman a sacred figure. Consequently, labeling Mao a dictator is perceived as a direct challenge to the Chinese Communist Party and its historical narrative.
8CCP Narrative and Nationalism
Stanford professor Jennifer Pan explains that the outrage fits the CCP’s broader narrative regarding China’s global ascension. The party frames such incidents as the West disrespecting China, allowing the state to position itself as a defender of national dignity. Official media outlets only permit versions of history that favor the party.
9Integrated Algorithmic Restrictions
Research indicates that Chinese AI models are trained with built-in censorship mechanisms. Unlike Western counterparts, these systems are designed to refuse or obfuscate inquiries regarding sensitive political topics. The specific methods of restriction vary by company, but the overarching goal remains the alignment of AI output with state-mandated political guidelines.
10The Reality of Digital Control
This incident underscores the limitations of AI in an environment where information is tightly controlled. While Chinese citizens often use VPNs to bypass restrictions, the AI tools themselves act as automated gatekeepers. The case of Mbappé illustrates how technology is leveraged to enforce ideological conformity and protect state-sanctioned historical interpretations.