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France forward Kylian Mbappe has become the centre of a diplomatic row after Paraguay’s government publicly condemned racist remarks made against the World Cup-winning captain by one of the country’s lawmakers following Paraguay’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued on Monday, Paraguay’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced comments made by Senator Celeste Amarilla, describing them as inconsistent with the country’s commitment to human dignity, peaceful coexistence and respect for all people.
“The remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla, directed at the captain of the French national team, Kylian Mbappe, are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity, which our country promotes,” the ministry said.
The government’s unusually swift rebuke came after Amarilla reportedly made racially offensive comments about the France captain in the aftermath of Paraguay’s exit from the World Cup over the weekend.
Although the foreign ministry did not provide details of the senator’s remarks, it stressed that Paraguay rejects all forms of discrimination and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting tolerance, equality and mutual respect in both public discourse and international relations.
The incident has drawn attention beyond football, highlighting growing concerns over racism in the sport and the responsibility of public officials to uphold standards of respectful conduct.
Mbappe, one of football’s biggest stars, has been instrumental in France’s World Cup campaign. The Real Madrid forward scored in France’s victory over Sweden in the Round of 32 and continues to play a pivotal role as Les Bleus pursue another world title.
The latest controversy adds to the long-standing debate over racism in football, with governing bodies and national governments increasingly adopting stronger positions against discriminatory behaviour both on and off the pitch.
