Kylian Mbappé’s Response to Racism
Kylian Mbappé, a prominent French footballer, strongly criticized Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla following her racist comments made after Paraguay’s loss to France in the World Cup round of 16. Mbappé described Amarilla as a “despicable woman” and “unworthy” of her role in Paraguay’s Congress. He expressed these views on social media, lamenting how her actions overshadowed her country’s participation and achievement in the tournament.
Paraguayan Senator’s Comments
Amarilla posted a series of derogatory remarks targeting Mbappé’s origins, upbringing, education, and appearance after he scored the decisive penalty in Saturday’s match. These comments were widely criticized for their racist undertones.
Official Responses from Paraguay and France
The Paraguayan government issued a statement condemning Amarilla’s comments, highlighting that such views are “contrary to the values and principles” of the nation. The statement emphasized that her words do not reflect the stance of the Paraguayan government or its people.
The French Football Federation (FFF) labeled Amarilla’s comments as “utterly abhorrent” and announced plans to refer the issue to legal authorities. France’s president, Emmanuel Macron, alongside sports minister Marina Ferrari, showed their support for Mbappé. Ferrari emphasized that the attacks on Mbappé are against the principles of “liberty, equality and fraternity” that France stands for. Macron praised Mbappé for scoring “one more goal…against racism.”
Additional Reactions
France’s assistant coach, Guy Stéphan, also expressed outrage, calling the remarks “indignant, abject, scandalous.” The Associated Press reached out to Amarilla for her comments via her social media handles.
In related events, former Paraguayan goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert made remarks referring to the French team as “a squad from Africa.” Philippe Diallo, FFF president, recalled Chilavert’s past glory as a goalkeeper but noted his recent fall “into disgrace.”
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