Paraguayan Senator Demands Apology from Kylian Mbappé Over Alleged Racist Remarks

Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla has escalated her public dispute with French football star Kylian Mbappé, demanding a personal apology for comments she described as racist and "gender violence."

The conflict began after Mbappé's post-match comments following France's victory over Paraguay in the World Cup. Mbappé stated, "We showed that we are not just a team that plays beautiful football; if we have to put our hands in the dirt, we will put them in." He added that his team proved they could play "dirty football" and were better than their opponents in that aspect.

In response, Amarilla posted a series of comments on social media platform X, allegedly mocking Mbappé's origins, upbringing, education, and appearance. This prompted Mbappé to label the senator as a "despicable woman" and "unworthy" of her position in Paraguay's Congress, accusing her of "brazen racism" that overshadowed his team's achievements.

Amarilla, however, insists the issue is personal. In a letter addressed to Mbappé in both Spanish and French, she stated, "The problem is between you and me. I never said anything about France; mine is with you." She recounted feeling angered by his "arrogance and contempt" before the match, interpreting his "hands in the dirt" comment as a slur against the Paraguayan team and its people. She is now demanding Mbappé retract his statements and apologize to her, threatening legal action if he fails to comply.