Kylian Mbappé, a prominent French soccer player, expressed strong disapproval on Monday regarding racist remarks made by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla. This incident occurred after Paraguay was defeated by France in the World Cup’s round of 16.
Mbappé labeled Amarilla, a member of Paraguay’s Liberal Radical Party, as a “despicable woman” and asserted that she was “unworthy” of her role in the Paraguayan Congress. He remarked on social media platform X that her racist actions overshadowed the commendable efforts of the Paraguayan team throughout the World Cup.
Amarilla had earlier posted a series of racist comments on X, criticizing Mbappé’s heritage, education, and appearance following France’s victory over Paraguay, where he scored the decisive penalty. France is now set to compete against Morocco in the quarterfinals on Thursday.
The Paraguayan government issued a statement condemning Amarilla’s remarks, describing them as “contrary to the values and principles” that support peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity. They clarified that these comments do not reflect the stance of the Paraguayan government or its citizens.
The French Football Federation also denounced Amarilla’s comments, deeming them “utterly abhorrent” and “unacceptable.” They announced plans to contact prosecutors concerning the matter.
France’s President, Emmanuel Macron, alongside Sports Minister Marina Ferrari, showed solidarity with their national team’s captain. Ferrari commented on X, “By targeting Kylian Mbappé, the senator is attacking everything our captain embodies and everything our country stands for: liberty, equality and fraternity.” Macron added his “full support” for Mbappé, celebrating his stand against racism.
Guy Stéphan, France’s assistant coach, joined in the condemnation, characterizing the remarks as “indignant, abject, scandalous.” The Associated Press attempted to contact Amarilla for a response via her social media on Monday.
Prior to the match on Saturday, José Luis Chilavert, a former goalkeeper for Paraguay, referred to France as “a squad from Africa.” Philippe Diallo, the president of the French Football Federation, remarked that Chilavert, once a notable goalkeeper, had now “fallen into disgrace.”