Mbappé condemns senator’s racist remarks after France-Paraguay World Cup match
France captain Kylian Mbappé has strongly condemned racist remarks made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla after France secured a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mbappé, who scored the winning penalty on Saturday, described Amarilla as a “despicable woman” who was “unworthy” of serving in Paraguay’s Congress after she posted racist comments about his origins, upbringing, education and appearance on X.
Mbappé hits back
In a statement shared on social media on Monday, Mbappé wrote:
“Madame Celeste Amarilla, you are a despicable woman, and unworthy of your position. You do not represent Paraguay, that country which has sweated passion and honour throughout the competition.”
He continued:
“Through your recklessness and your brazen racism, the entire world has already forgotten the journey and the historic effort that your players accomplished during this World Cup.”
Mbappé ended his message by declaring:
“I will never allow people like her the freedom to spread their hatred and racism across the world.”
Senator responds and demands apology
Later on Monday, Amarilla posted an open letter in French and Spanish, insisting that her criticism was directed at Mbappé and not at France.
She admitted regretting the insults and confirmed that she had deleted the original post. However, the senator also demanded an apology from the French captain, accusing him of gender-based violence through his comments and warning that she could pursue legal action if he did not withdraw his remarks.
Paraguayan government distances itself
The Paraguayan government quickly rejected the senator’s comments, saying they were:
“Contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity that our country promotes.”
Officials added that Amarilla’s views did not represent either the government or the people of Paraguay.
French leaders back Mbappé
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for Mbappé, posting:
“One more goal for Kylian Mbappé. This time against racism.”
France’s Sports Minister Marina Ferrari added that the senator’s remarks attacked everything the French captain and the country stand for.
France assistant coach Guy Stéphan also condemned the comments, describing them as “indignant, abject and scandalous.”
The controversy came shortly after former Paraguayan goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert referred to France as “a squad from Africa” before the Round of 16 encounter, comments that were also condemned by French football authorities.
