Paraguay condemns racist insults against Mbappé after World Cup 2026 loss
The Paraguay national team and authorities condemned the racist remarks by Senator Celeste Amarilla against Kylian Mbappé following their elimination in the World Cup 2026 round of 16. Paraguay lost 0-1 to France (2026-07-04) in a match decided by a penalty from the French captain, sparking the controversial comments.
What did the Paraguayan senator say?
Amarilla posted messages on X questioning Mbappé's origins and French identity. The forward responded by calling her words "despicable" and "unworthy of her position." "You do not represent Paraguay, a country that has shown passion and honor throughout this competition," wrote the footballer.
International reactions
French President Emmanuel Macron supported Mbappé and condemned the "racist attacks." The Paraguayan government distanced itself from the remarks, clarifying that they do not represent the state or the people. FIFA and the French Football Federation (FFF) also condemned the comments.
What's next for Paraguay?
With a recent record of 1W-2D-2L (LDDWL), the Paraguay national team aims to recover after their elimination. The squad, which displayed passion and honor in the tournament, now focuses on future challenges, leaving behind the controversy sparked by Amarilla's remarks.
