Paraguay was knocked out in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup and, the following day, the Paraguayan government condemned the racist remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla against Kylian Mbappé. In an official statement, the Foreign Ministry emphasized that such language “contradicts the values of peaceful coexistence”. The senator, 61, from the Liberal Party, called the French captain a “colonised Cameroonian pretending to be French, resentful, newly rich, arrogant and ugly”.
The incident highlights how Paraguay’s elimination (1‑0 to France after Mbappé’s goal) reverberated beyond the pitch. The ministry reminded the nation’s commitment to equality and anti‑racism, reinforcing the team’s image amid a recent form of 2 wins and 3 losses (WWLLL). Paraguay’s last official win came against Mexico, 2‑1, on 19‑Nov‑2025, a result that still fuels fan optimism.
Mbappé answered on social media with a firm rebuttal, defending the sport’s dignity. Neither FIFA nor UEFA issued statements, but the controversy reignited discussions about politicians’ conduct at sporting events. Former Paraguayan players, such as José Luis Chávez, called for mutual respect and highlighted the need for unity after the exit.
With the group stage finished, Paraguay’s next challenge is qualifying for the 2027 Copa América. Coach Gustavo Díaz has pledged to work on squad cohesion, building on the recent two‑match winning streak. Meanwhile, the government maintains its stance on human‑rights protection, promising to treat any future incidents with the same severity.
Key fact: Paraguay ended its latest international campaign with a record of 2 wins, 0 draws and 3 losses, and its most recent victory was 2‑1 over Mexico on 19‑Nov‑2025.
