After racist attacks against Mbappé: Paraguay conveys apology, confirms Sports Minister Ferrari

Paris – 09.07.2026: France’s Sports Minister Marina Ferrari reiterated that the government of Paraguay had formally expressed regret over racist remarks by a Paraguayan senator directed at Kylian Mbappé. In an interview with franceinfo on Thursday morning she said the attacks were “unacceptable”, and the state stood firmly behind the national team’s captain. Earlier, the Élysée Palace and the Fédération Française de Football (FFF) had already spoken out strongly and supported legal steps.
The trigger were derogatory posts by the senator on social networks after the World Cup round-of-16 match Paraguay–France on 4 July 2026. The comments spread quickly internationally and met with widespread criticism. In Asunción the government immediately distanced itself: in an official statement it said the remarks were contrary to the country’s values. The senator deleted her posts; in Paraguay a debate erupted about political responsibility and the limits of free speech that goes far beyond sport.
In France the Paris public prosecutor’s office confirmed the opening of an investigation for public insult and incitement to hatred. At the same time the FFF filed a criminal complaint. Ferrari stressed that the rule of law must pursue such cases consistently; at the same time players must be better protected from targeted abuses in digital spaces. Federations and clubs are watching the proceedings closely because possible decisions could send a signal about how to deal with racist outbursts in an international context.
Diplomatically the tone between Paris and Asunción remained controlled. According to the minister the apology was conveyed through official channels, together with assurances that the incidents would be reviewed internally. It is unclear whether the senator will face party or mandate-related consequences. In France the case is also read as a domestic warning: the handling of prominent athletes online, the role of elected officials and protection from racist attacks are back on the agenda.
Sporting focus now turns to the quarter-final France–Morocco on 9 July 2026. The controversy has accompanied Les Bleus’ preparations in the media, but sources close to the team say they are concentrating on the tournament. Regardless of the match result the affair is likely to have lasting effects: further statements from both governments and outcomes of the ongoing investigations are expected. For federations and politicians the case is a test of how effectively international cooperation and national law can counter cross-border hate.