Paraguayan Senator's Racist Tirade Against Mbappe Draws Widespread Condemnation
Translated from Slovenian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla racially insulted French football star Kylian Mbappe on social media.
- Mbappe responded to the senator's comments, calling her ignorant and racist.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the remarks and called for an end to racism in football.
Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla ignited controversy with racist remarks targeting French football star Kylian Mbappe following a World Cup match. Amarilla, a senator from the South American nation, posted inflammatory comments on social media platform X, suggesting Mbappe had an "uneducated" upbringing and comparing him to chimpanzees.
You are not worthy of your position. You do not represent Paraguay. Because of your ignorance and blatant racism, the world has already forgotten the historic and heartfelt journey of your players in this World Cup. Incapable woman who spreads the worst image of her country.
Mbappe swiftly responded to the senator's insults, denouncing her position and stating she did not represent Paraguay. He accused her of spreading a negative image of her country through ignorance and blatant racism. The French Minister of Sports, Marina Ferrari, also condemned Amarilla's statements, calling them "disgusting" and "unacceptable" for a political figure.
These posts are disgusting, unworthy, and completely unacceptable for a person in a political position.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino joined the chorus of condemnation, expressing solidarity with the French captain. He emphasized the global football community's stance against racism and called for its eradication. The incident highlights ongoing issues of racism in sports and the public scrutiny faced by public figures, even those in political office.
I clearly condemn the racist remarks by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla against Kylian Mbappe. The football world and society as a whole show solidarity with the captain of the French national team: we must fight against racism and eradicate it together.
Originally published by Delo in Slovenian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.