Mbappe was the victim of racist comments by the senator
The Government of the Republic of Paraguay has publicly distanced itself from racist remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla against France captain Kylian Mbappe, describing her comments as contrary to the country's values and principles.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said it "deplores and rejects" Amarilla's remarks, which were directed at Mbappe following Paraguay's elimination from the World Cup by France in the last 16.
"The Government of the Republic of Paraguay deplores and rejects the remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla directed at the captain of the French national team, Kylian Mbappé, which are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity that our country promotes," the statement read.
The government was quick to clarify that Amarilla's comments reflected her own personal views as a legislator and did not in any way represent the official position of Paraguay or its people.
"Paraguay is a democratic Republic governed by the principle of separation and independence of the powers of the State, and in this context, the statements made by the aforementioned legislator correspond exclusively to the exercise of her individual responsibility as a member of the Legislative Branch and in no way represent the position of the Government of the Republic of Paraguay or of the Paraguayan people," it added.
The government further reaffirmed its commitment to human rights and equality, condemning all forms of racism and discrimination while extending an olive branch to France.
"The Government of Paraguay reaffirms its firm commitment to the promotion of human rights, equality and mutual respect, the fight against racism, xenophobia, intolerance and all manifestations of hatred or discrimination. Likewise, it expresses its solidarity with those who may have felt affected by these statements and reiterates its respect for the French people, with whom Paraguay maintains a historic relationship of friendship, cooperation and mutual understanding," the statement concluded.
The statement follows widespread condemnation of Amarilla's remarks, which mocked Mbappe's origin and education after Paraguay's defeat. Mbappe branded her "despicable" and "unworthy" of her position, while the French Football Federation (FFF) announced plans to pursue criminal charges, describing her comments as "utterly abhorrent and unacceptable." Her remarks came just days after former Paraguay goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert also drew criticism for describing France's squad as "a team from Africa" ahead of the tie.
See the post below:
— Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (@mreparaguay) July 6, 2026
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