The Government of Paraguay has officially distanced itself from controversial remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla against France captain Kylian Mbappé, stressing that the comments do not reflect the country’s values or official position.
In a diplomatic note dated July 7, 2026, the Paraguayan Embassy in France addressed the French Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and the Armed Forces, expressing the government’s rejection of the senator’s statements.
The embassy said Paraguay “deplores and rejects” the remarks, describing them as being contrary to the principles of human dignity, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The statement emphasised that Paraguay is a democratic republic founded on the separation and independence of the branches of government.
It noted that Senator Amarilla’s comments were made in her personal capacity as a member of the legislature and should not be interpreted as representing either the Paraguayan government or its people.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting equality, respect and human rights, while strongly opposing racism, xenophobia, intolerance and all forms of discrimination.
It further expressed solidarity with everyone affected by such behaviour and reiterated Paraguay’s respect for the French people, highlighting the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
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The diplomatic intervention follows an international backlash after Senator Amarilla posted racist comments on social media following France’s 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mbappé, who scored the winning goal from the penalty spot, publicly condemned the senator, describing her remarks as racist and saying they damaged Paraguay’s image on the global stage.
The controversy has continued to grow, with the French Football Federation filing a legal complaint with French authorities.
French prosecutors have since opened an investigation into the alleged racist insults, while several international organisations including the United Nations and political leaders have condemned the comments.
