The Paraguay national team remains at the center of controversy after their World Cup 2026 elimination. Following their 0-1 loss to France on July 4, Senator Celeste Amarilla reignited her feud with Kylian Mbappé, accusing him of racism and disrespect. The French forward ignored the courtesy gesture from Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill, sparking fresh criticism from the politician.

What did Celeste Amarilla say?

The senator from the Authentic Radical Liberal Party has refused to apologize. In a parliamentary session, she stated: "When Orlando Gill, a boy playing in his first World Cup, offered his hand with humility, this son of a bitch refused to shake it and shouted in his face. That’s not French." Amarilla also called him a "colonized Cameroonian pretending to be French, resentful, nouveau riche, arrogant, and ugly."

Reactions in Paraguay and France

Real Madrid, Mbappé’s club, issued a statement rejecting the senator’s "lamentable racist and xenophobic remarks." Paraguay’s president, Santiago Peña, also condemned the insults, emphasizing that Paraguay defends human rights and free expression. Mbappé responded by calling Amarilla a "despicable woman unworthy of her position."

What’s next for Paraguay?

The Paraguay national team, with a recent record of 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 losses (LDDWL), must rebuild after their elimination. The squad must now focus on the future, particularly the 2027 Copa América, where they aim to improve their performance.