As extensive damage from a landslide near the Nepal-China border crossing became clear, the Spanish football club Real Madrid has been criticized in China for listing Nepal and Tibet on the same level.

Real Madrid recently uploaded a photo on its official SNS account showing players from both teams observing a moment of silence before a match, and wrote in English, 'A moment of silence for the flood victims of Nepal and Tibet at the Bernabéu (home stadium).'

However, Chinese media outlet Guancha.cn reported on the 1st an article titled 'Real Madrid Causes Another China-Related Problem,' stating, 'This was supposed to be a goodwill gesture demonstrating sportsmanship and humanitarian concern, but by treating Nepal and Tibet equally in the post, there are criticisms that the expression is highly inappropriate.'

It then asserted, 'Real Madrid not only referred to Tibet as 'Tibet' instead of its Chinese transliteration 'Xizang,' but also treated Tibet and Nepal as two parallel, equal entities. It is well-known that Tibet has been an inseparable part of China since ancient times.' It also pointed out that other Spanish league clubs' memorial messages all mentioned 'Nepal and China.'

Furthermore, after quoting a Chinese netizen's comment, 'If you intend to split the country, you should not bring up separatist silly ploys during such a difficult time,' it reported, 'Real Madrid has not changed the content of the problematic post and has shown no reaction to public criticism whatsoever.'

The article pointed out, 'This is not the first time Real Madrid has crossed a red line in China-related issues,' and critically reported on previous incidents such as Real Madrid player Dean Huijsen reposting content insulting Chinese people, and Real Madrid ending the controversy with a 'perfunctory apology' even after the commotion caused an uproar.

Global Times, also a Chinese Communist Party-affiliated media, also referred to this issue. Global Times stated that 'Real Madrid has treated Tibet and Nepal on the same level and refused to make corrections,' and reported, 'Despite dissatisfaction from many Chinese netizens, Real Madrid has not deleted the post nor provided an explanation.'

It also criticized, stating, 'While observing a moment of silence for victims of natural disasters is originally a goodwill gesture demonstrating humanitarian concern across borders,' 'all that goodwill was undermined by Real Madrid's incorrect wording.' It further demanded, 'Real Madrid has many fans in China, and its every move should be more cautious,' and 'Regardless of whether it was a temporary oversight, Real Madrid should delete the erroneous post and sincerely apologize to the Chinese people.'

Furthermore, on Chinese social media, Real Madrid is being fiercely bashed by users with strong 'patriotism.' (Translation/Editing by Kitada)

Moment of silence at the Bernabéu for the victims of the flood in Nepal and Tibet. pic.twitter.com/TsUx0GeRiF

— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) August 30, 2026