China expressed strong indignation against Real Madrid after the publication of a message about Tibet during the minute of silence held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The message also included Nepal, which aggravated the situation.
The Chinese newspapers Global Times and Beijing Daily accused the Spanish club of fueling separatism with this publication. Chinese authorities consider that the mention of Tibet represents interference in the country's internal affairs.
Tibet is an extremely sensitive topic for China, which considers it an integral part of its territory. Any international recognition of Tibetan autonomy is met with strong opposition from Beijing's authorities.
This incident could affect the relationship between Real Madrid and the Chinese market, which is one of the biggest sources of revenue for the Spanish club. The controversy arises at a time of diplomatic tension between China and various Western countries.
