French Prosecutors Investigate Racist Abuse of Mbappé by Paraguayan Senator

French prosecutors have opened an investigation into racist abuse directed at Kylian Mbappé by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla after France defeated Paraguay in a World Cup match. The Paris prosecutor’s office launched the inquiry following a complaint filed by the French Football Federation (FFF), which described the remarks as “utterly abhorrent and unacceptable.”

After Paraguay's loss to France, Amarilla posted racial abuse against Mbappé on social media, mocking his heritage and suggesting that Paraguayan players should have slapped him after the match. In response, Mbappé called her a “despicable woman” and criticized her for overshadowing Paraguay’s achievements in the tournament.

The Paris prosecutor’s office noted that the remarks were allegedly made because of the victim’s actual or perceived origin, ethnicity, nationality, race, or religion. The offences are punishable by up to one year of imprisonment and a €45,000 fine. As her racist attack made headlines around the world, Amarilla posted an open letter in French and Spanish to Mbappé on social media.

In her letter, she sought to lay blame with Mbappé for her remarks, citing his behavior during the match and comments about France ditching their “tuxedos” to play “dirty football.” She said she regretted mistreating Mbappé but used nearly half of the letter to criticize his response. The government of Paraguay sought to distance itself from her remarks, describing them as contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity.

France’s president, Emmanuel Macron, was among many who voiced support for Mbappé on social media. France’s assistant coach, Guy Stephan, also condemned the senator’s attack. The controversy began after France eliminated Paraguay from the 2026 World Cup with a 1-0 victory, thanks to a penalty shot by Mbappé.

In other news, Kylian Mbappé had a goal and an assist as France beat Morocco 2-0 in the World Cup quarterfinals. Ousmane Dembélé scored the other goal for France. Les Bleus will face either Spain or Belgium in the semifinals in Dallas on Tuesday.

Mbappé's goal in the 60th minute was the 20th of his World Cup career, moving him one behind Argentina captain Lionel Messi. Dembélé scored his fifth goal of the tournament in the 66th. France held a 21-4 advantage in shots on goal and an 8-1 edge in shots on target for the game.