Controversy Erupts Over Rajoy's Comments on French Football Players

Former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has ignited controversy with his remarks about the French national football team, claiming there are 'no French players.' This statement has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders in both Spain and France, who have labeled it as racist and xenophobic. As the World Cup semifinal approaches, the backlash has overshadowed the excitement surrounding the match. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and various French officials have condemned Rajoy's comments, emphasizing the need to judge players based on their talent rather than their background. The upcoming match between France and Spain promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams unbeaten in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 07:19 IST

Rajoy's Remarks Spark Outrage

Mariano Rajoy, the former Prime Minister of Spain, has faced significant backlash for his assertion that there are 'no French players' in the French national football team, just days before the FIFA World Cup semifinal against Spain. His comments, published in an opinion piece for a Spanish news outlet, have been labeled as racist and xenophobic by political figures in both Spain and France.

Spain's Prime Minister Responds

Spain's PM Criticises Mariano Rajoy's Remarks

Pedro Sanchez, the current Prime Minister of Spain, took to his official X account to denounce Rajoy's statement. He emphasized that identity should not be determined by surname, birthplace, or skin color, but rather by one's commitment to the nation. Sanchez stated, 'Spain belongs to those who cherish it and contribute positively, not to those who tarnish it with xenophobic remarks.'

Widespread Condemnation in France

Mariano Rajoy Sparks Massive Backlash

The reaction in France was swift and severe. Aurore Berge, the Minister against Discrimination, criticized the 'ongoing racist rhetoric' and called for a return to sports being judged solely on talent. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez deemed Rajoy's comments 'completely unacceptable.' Fabien Roussel, leader of the Communist Party, likened Rajoy's remarks to previous racist comments made by a Paraguayan senator about Kylian Mbappe. Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, also condemned the remarks, labeling them as having an 'intolerable undertone of racism.' The controversy has overshadowed the anticipation for the World Cup semifinal, with leaders from both nations advocating for players to be assessed based on their abilities rather than their backgrounds.

Upcoming Match Details

France vs Spain

The highly anticipated World Cup semifinal between France and Spain is set to occur at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, July 14, with kickoff at 12:30 AM IST on Wednesday. Both teams have remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, with France defeating Senegal, Iraq, Norway, Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco. Spain, on the other hand, has allowed the fewest goals but has had to work hard to secure victories, winning four matches by a single goal. Their last encounter was in the Euro 2024 semifinal, where Spain triumphed 2-1. The winner of this match will advance to the final to face the victor of the Argentina vs England match.