Macron Defends Mbappé Against Racist Attacks by Paraguayan Senator

French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced strong support for national football captain Kylian Mbappé, denouncing "racist attacks" from a Paraguayan senator following Paraguay's exit from the 2026 World Cup. The Elysée announced Monday that the president stands with Mbappé and the French team against these targeted insults.

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña also communicated with Macron, condemning the senator's statements, a stance echoed by Paraguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The controversy ignited after Senator Celeste Amarilla launched a vitriolic attack on the French star, calling him a "brute" who "never learned to write." She further described him as a "colonized Cameroonian, pretending to be French, resentful, nouveau riche, arrogant, and ugly."

Mbappé himself responded to the senator via X, stating she does not represent Paraguay, a nation that displayed passion and honor throughout the tournament. He criticized her "uninhibited racism and unconsciousness," suggesting the world had forgotten the players' historical achievements due to her remarks.

Amarilla's comments came after Paraguay's defeat in the World Cup 2026 knockout stage, a loss that ended their tournament run.

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Le président de la République soutient Kylian Mbappé et l'équipe de France face aux attaques racistes visant le capitaine des Bleus.