Archive · 14 Jan 2026
Chinese Entrepreneur Backtracks on Car Promise to Winning Football Team
A Chinese businesswoman named Tang Lei promised to give cars to a football team if they won a big competition.
The team, called Yongzhou, won, but Tang then said she couldn't give the cars because of money problems.
Some people understand and support her, while others are upset because they think she should keep her promise.
The local football group said they won't force her to give the cars, and the news on TV said it's good that they're being kind to her.
Even though some people are unhappy, most seem to understand that Tang is having a hard time.
Chinese entrepreneur Tang Lei promised cars to the Yongzhou football team if they won the Hunan Provincial Football Competition.
The team won the competition, but Tang retracted her offer, citing financial difficulties and personal issues.
Tang initially donated 100,000 yuan to support the team and publicly promised cars for the players.
The local football association and state media CCTV expressed understanding and support for Tang's situation.
Some players and social media users criticized Tang for lacking credibility, despite the general support.
- Who
- Tang Lei, Chairwoman of Xinlantian Group, and the Yongzhou football team
- What
- Tang promised cars to the team if they won the Hunan Provincial Football Competition but retracted the offer after their victory
- When
- After the team's victory in the competition
- Where
- Yongzhou, Hunan Province, China
- Why
- Tang cited financial difficulties and personal issues for retracting the promise
- Entrepreneur
- Tang Lei (Chairwoman of Xinlantian Group)
- Football Team
- Yongzhou
- Competition
- Hunan Provincial Football Competition
- Initial Donation
- 100,000 yuan
- Promise
- Cars for each player if they won
- Local Football Association's Stance
- Understanding and not pressuring Tang
- State Media's View
- Acknowledged the company's initial support and current difficulties