KFC’s French branch is considering legal action after national football star Kylian Mbappé refuses to take part in sponsorship events.
The international fast food chain is one of the partners of the French Football Federation.
“We paid for something specific and we will insist on our rights if necessary,” KFC France vice president Alain Beral told the Sport Business Club website.
He was reacting to Mbappé’s refusal to participate in photo shoots and other sponsorship activities on Tuesday.
The 23-year-old Paris Saint-Germain striker has previously stated that he does not want to promote certain brands, including fast food chains or bookies.
“I decided not to take part in the photo shoot because the French federation refused to modify the contracts regarding the personal rights of the players,” Mbappé said in a press statement.
Officials of the national association said they will reevaluate the contracts of selected players.
Moreover, the company soon corrected Beral’s words. “We regret the words he said yesterday and were published today. They were his personal views and in no way reflect the position of the company,” KFC France said.
“Furthermore, Alain Béral said this in a private interview during an event related to his position as president of the National Basketball League,” the company said.
World champions France face Austria in the Nations League on Thursday before playing in Denmark three days later.
Another star footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo, also became famous for his fight for a healthier diet last year, when he removed a bottle of Coca-Cola during a press conference during the European Championship.
