A Paraguayan politician has made racist remarks against Kylian Mbappé – the scandal has reached the highest political levels.
The French Football Federation (FFF) announced plans to take legal action against Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla de Boccia. Her remarks were described as “despicable and unacceptable” in a statement from the federation. The Paris public prosecutor’s office has initiated investigations for public insults based on racial grounds, as well as for incitement to hatred or violence.
Amarilla de Boccia made derogatory comments about Mbappé following the World Cup Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France (0-1), claiming he was a “colonized Cameroonian” who played for the tough French side, describing him as “filled with inferiority complexes, newly rich, arrogant, and ugly.” Mbappé, who was born in Paris, scored the decisive goal for France in the match against Paraguay. His parents are from Cameroon and Algeria.
“You are a despicable woman and unworthy of your office,” wrote the Real Madrid striker. She does not represent the Paraguay that was filled with “passion and honor” during the World Cup. He vowed never to allow people like Amarilla de Boccia to “spread their hatred and racism in the world.”
Macron: “Another Goal for Mbappé – Against Racism”
“I assure our captain, the players, and generally all victims of such abominable statements my full support,” wrote France’s Federation President Philippe Diallo. “The players of the French national team represent France. It is our country that is being insulted.” The statements are considered “punishable” and “reprehensible.”
French President Emmanuel Macron also spoke out, stating: “Another goal for Kylian Mbappé. This time against racism.” He added, “I fully support him. When words hurt, our values send a message: dignity, respect, brotherhood.”
Senator Expresses Regret for Parts of Her Statements
Amarilla de Boccia has referred to Mbappé as a “fool” who “has not even learned to write.” She stated, “Instead of mother’s milk, he sucked on coconuts, and the most educated thing he ever heard was about monkeys. You should have shown him the middle finger, Orlando Gill. I do it in the Senate too, and nothing happens!” After the game, Mbappé refused to shake hands with Paraguay’s goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
Later, Amarilla de Boccia published a letter explaining her situation. The main message was that her issue was between herself and the player – it did not concern the country of France. She expressed regret for parts of her comments: “I regretted very quickly insulting you with the same insults that I myself receive.” As a Latina, she also faces discrimination because of her skin color.
She then demanded an apology from Mbappé, while preparing new harsh statements. She accused him of gender-based violence in his comments about her and threatened legal action if he did not retract his statements.
Mbappé Constantly Warns Against Right-Wing Extremism
Mbappé frequently makes political statements. Before the World Cup, he renewed his warning about the far-right in France, drawing criticism from the leadership of the Rassemblement National (RN).
In an interview with Vanity Fair, Mbappé stated: “I know what it means and the consequences it can have for my country when people like them gain power.” The presidential election is set for 2027 in France.
As a football player, he asserted his right to express his opinion just like anyone else. During Euro 2024, he had also spoken out against the RN ahead of the 2024 parliamentary elections in France.
