France's forward #10 Kylian Mbappe argues with Paraguay's defender #02 Gustavo Velazquez and defender #15 Gustavo Gomez during the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match between Paraguay and France at the Philadelphia Stadium in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026. (Photo by MAURO PIMENTEL / AFP)
World football governing body, FIFA, and French President Emmanuel Macron have thrown their weight behind Kylian Mbappé, condemning racist remarks made by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Macron, in a post on his X handle, denounced what he described as Amarilla’s “racist attacks” on the France captain and reaffirmed the country’s support for the forward.
“Another goal for Kylian Mbappé. Against racism this time. All my support. When words defile, our values respond: dignity, respect, fraternity. @KMbappe,” Macron wrote.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also condemned the senator’s remarks, stressing that football must remain united against racism.
