France captain Kylian Mbappé sharply condemned the racist comments made by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilio after France defeated Paraguay 1-0 in the Round of 16 match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mbappé's Reaction to the Comments
Mbappé, who scored the winning penalty on Saturday, called Amarilio a 'woman deserving of contempt' who is 'unworthy' of holding office in the Paraguayan Congress. He said this after the senator posted racist remarks about his origin, upbringing, education, and appearance on the social network X.
In a statement published on Monday on the social network, Mbappé addressed her: 'Madam Celeste Amarilio, you are a woman deserving of contempt and unworthy of your position. You do not represent Paraguay, this country that has fought with passion and honor throughout the tournament.'
Accusations of Racism
He continued, asserting that due to her carelessness and blatant racism, the whole world forgot about the path and historical effort achieved by the players during this World Cup, allowing an 'incompetent woman who gives the worst image of her country.'
Mbappé concluded his message by saying: 'I will never allow people like her to spread their hatred and racism around the world.'
Senator's Response and Government Reaction
Later on Monday, Amarilio published an open letter in French and Spanish on X in response to Mbappé's comments. She stated that her criticism was directed at the player, not at France. Amarilio also admitted that she regretted insulting Mbappé with 'the same insults' that, in her words, were directed at her as a mixed-race person, and confirmed that she had deleted the original post.
Nevertheless, the senator demanded an apology from Mbappé, accusing him of gender violence through his comments, and warned of possible legal action if he did not retract his remarks.
Government Stance and Support
The Paraguayan government quickly distanced itself from Amarilio's comments. In its statement, it noted that her statements 'contradict the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity, which our country promotes.' It was added that the senator's views do not reflect the government or the people of Paraguay.
French leaders also supported Mbappé. President Emmanuel Macron wrote on X: 'Another goal for Kylian Mbappé. This time against racism.' French Sports Minister Marine Ferraris stated: 'By targeting Kylian Mbappé, the senator attacks everything our captain embodies and everything our country represents: freedom, equality, and brotherhood.'
French coach assistant Gis Stefan also criticized the comments, calling them 'outrageous, disgusting, scandalous.' The conflict followed earlier remarks by former Paraguayan goalkeeper José Luis Chilvert, who called France a 'team from Africa' before the Round of 16 match. The President of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, dismissed these comments, stating that Chilvert had 'fallen out of favor.'