Mbappé Hits Back At Paraguayan Senator Over Racist Abuse, Calls Her ‘Unworthy Of Public Office’
France captain Kylian Mbappé has strongly condemned racist comments made against him by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla, describing her as “a despicable woman” who is unfit to hold public office after France’s World Cup victory over Paraguay.
The controversy erupted after France defeated Paraguay 1-0 in their Round of 16 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Mbappé scoring the decisive goal from the penalty spot to send the French side into the quarter-finals. The closely contested encounter was marked by physical challenges and heated exchanges between players.
Following the match, Amarilla published a series of offensive posts on social media targeting the French star, using racist and xenophobic language while questioning his identity and making personal insults. She also suggested that Paraguayan players should have confronted Mbappé after the final whistle.
Mbappé did not let the remarks go unanswered. In a statement shared on social media, the Real Madrid forward accused the senator of disgracing her country through what he described as open racism.
He said Amarilla’s comments had overshadowed Paraguay’s impressive performances at the World Cup, arguing that instead of celebrating the team’s historic campaign, global attention had shifted to the controversy created by one politician’s actions.
The French international also stressed that the senator’s views do not represent the people of Paraguay, whom he praised for their passion and commitment throughout the tournament.
“I will never allow people like her to spread hatred and racism around the world,” Mbappé declared, reaffirming his opposition to discrimination in football and society.
The incident has drawn a swift response from the French Football Federation, which described the senator’s comments as “criminal” and “completely unacceptable.” The federation announced that it would refer the matter to French prosecutors with a view to pursuing legal action.
French football officials said the remarks were not only directed at Mbappé but also insulted the French national team and the country it represents, adding that racism has no place in football or public life.
The episode has sparked widespread condemnation from football fans and anti-racism advocates, adding to ongoing conversations about discrimination in sport during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mbappé, who has frequently spoken out against racism throughout his career, has once again made clear that he will not remain silent in the face of racial abuse.