‘Biggest fake in the history of sport’

Real Madrid have expressed firm support for Kylian Mbappe following reports from Sweden that the forward is under investigation for an alleged rape in a Stockholm hotel.

Swedish authorities are investigating a complaint involving a suspected rape at a hotel where Mbappe stayed last week. Reports in Scandinavian media suggest the Real Madrid forward has been identified as the suspect, though the player and his legal team have strongly denied the allegations.

Mbappe’s lawyer described the accusations as “fake news”, stating the player is “flabbergasted” by the claims. Real Madrid have also come out in full support, calling the accusations “the biggest fake in the history of sport”, according to a report by AFP.

The controversy was heightened after Jude Bellingham mistakenly shared an original adidas promotional image featuring Mbappe. However, when the official campaign was released, Mbappe had been removed, leading to speculation that the change was linked to the ongoing allegations.

Madrid quickly clarified that the omission had nothing to do with the investigation. The club explained that Mbappe’s removal was due to his association with Nike, a direct competitor of adidas.

Despite the off-field drama, Mbappe is focusing on football, with Real Madrid set to face Celta Vigo on 19 October 2024 in La Liga. The forward will aim to stay sharp ahead of Madrid’s upcoming Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund three days later.

This situation has cast a shadow over Mbappe’s start at Real Madrid, but both the player and the club remain committed to clearing his name and moving forward.