Macron Supports Mbappe Against Racist Remarks from Paraguayan Senator

French President Emmanuel Macron has publicly supported Kylian Mbappe after the football captain faced racist remarks from Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla. Macron praised Mbappe for his stand against racism, calling it a significant victory. The controversy erupted following a tense World Cup match, where Amarilla made derogatory comments about Mbappe's heritage and performance. The Paraguayan government condemned her statements, asserting they do not reflect national values. The French Football Federation also expressed solidarity with Mbappe, labeling the comments as unacceptable and announcing plans for legal action. This incident highlights ongoing issues of racism in sports and the importance of standing against discrimination.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 7, 2026, 06:29 IST

Macron Stands by Mbappe Amid Controversy

In a recent statement, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his support for Kylian Mbappe, the captain of the national men's football team, after the player confronted derogatory comments made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla. Macron praised Mbappe for scoring 'another goal' in the fight against racism.

Amarilla's comments labeled Mbappe as a 'colonised Cameroonian' and accused him of being 'pretentious, resentful, newly wealthy, arrogant, and unattractive.' She further claimed that France's victory was merely a stroke of luck and suggested that Mbappe appeared fearful throughout the match.

In response, Mbappe referred to Amarilla as a 'despicable woman' unfit for her role.

Macron tweeted, 'Another goal for Kylian Mbappe. This time against racism. I stand with him. When words demean, our values respond: dignity, respect, fraternity. @KMbappe.'

https://x.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/2074260211733291407

The match itself was marked by intense physical play, with tensions rising on both sides. Following the game, Amarilla harshly criticized Mbappe and the French team, while Mbappe condemned Paraguay's 'dirty football' tactics.

The Paraguayan government also issued a statement denouncing Amarilla's remarks. They emphasized that her comments do not reflect the views of the government or the Paraguayan people, asserting their commitment to human rights and the fight against discrimination.

The French Football Federation (FFF) joined the chorus of support for Mbappe, labeling Amarilla's comments as 'criminal and reprehensible' and announcing plans to pursue legal action.