France captain Kylian Mbappé has strongly condemned racist remarks made by a Paraguayan senator following France’s 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mbappé took to X on Monday to denounce Senator Celeste Amarilla, describing her comments as “despicable” and saying she was “not worthy” of holding public office.
“Mrs. Celeste Amarilla, you are a despicable woman and not worthy of your position,” Mbappé wrote.
He further stated that the senator’s remarks did not reflect the values of Paraguay or its people.
“You do not represent Paraguay, the country that has sweated passion and honour throughout the competition. Through your lack of awareness and your uninhibited racism, the entire world has already forgotten your team’s run and historic effort at this World Cup.”
The controversy followed Saturday’s tense World Cup knockout clash in Philadelphia, where Mbappé scored the decisive penalty to send France into the quarter-finals.
After the match, Amarilla posted a series of racist comments on social media targeting the Real Madrid forward, making offensive remarks about his Cameroonian heritage and questioning his French identity.
The comments have sparked widespread condemnation in France, with French Sports Minister Marina Ferraridescribing them as “abject” and “disgraceful,” adding that such remarks are especially unacceptable coming from an elected public official.
Mbappé, whose father is of Cameroonian origin, has been outspoken against racism throughout his career. His response has drawn support from fans and public figures, who praised his firm stance against discrimination.
France will now turn its attention to Thursday’s quarter-final clash against Morocco as it continues its pursuit of a third FIFA World Cup title.
