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Chilavert sparks racism row with 'African team' comment about France
🇬🇷 Greece /Culture & Society

Chilavert sparks racism row with 'African team' comment about France

From Ta Nea · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Paraguayan legend José Luis Chilavert made a controversial statement about the national team's upcoming match against France.
  • Chilavert suggested Paraguay would play an "African team" instead of France, drawing accusations of racism.
  • The comment came after a former French player's criticism of Paraguay's playing style.

Former legendary Paraguayan goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert has ignited controversy with a statement regarding his country's upcoming match against France in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16. Chilavert's remarks have drawn sharp criticism and accusations of racism.

The controversy began after former French striker Christophe Dugarry suggested that Paraguay would suffer a heavy defeat against France, describing the team as "incapable" of playing attacking football. Chilavert responded to these comments via his social media account.

In his post, Chilavert replied to Dugarry, stating, "Christophe, you are right. In 1998 we faced France. Now Paraguay will face an African team." This statement quickly led to a wave of backlash, with many interpreting it as a racist comparison linking the French national team to the African heritage of some of its players.

It is noteworthy that among the current French squad, only backup goalkeeper Brice Samba was born in Africa (Democratic Republic of Congo). The other players born outside metropolitan France hail from French Guiana, England, and Italy. Chilavert's comment has sparked significant debate about national identity and racial undertones in football commentary.

Christophe, you are right. In 1998 we faced France. Now Paraguay will face an African team.

— José Luis ChilavertResponding to criticism from former French player Christophe Dugarry about Paraguay's footballing ability.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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