Asuncion: A war of words between Paraguay senator Celeste Amarilla and France striker Kylian Mbappe has intensified during the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the politician drawing widespread criticism after using abusive language against the player on the Senate floor.
The controversy follows France’s narrow 1-0 victory over Paraguay in a recent World Cup fixture, after which tensions reportedly flared between Mbappe and Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill. What began as a post-match disagreement has now escalated into a heated public and political exchange.
Senator’s remarks spark outrage
Celeste Amarilla, a member of Paraguay’s Authentic Radical Liberal Party, sparked backlash after referring to Mbappe with an offensive term during a Senate session. The remark came as she criticised the French forward for allegedly refusing to shake hands with Gill after the match.
“When Orlando Gill, a boy who was surely playing in his first World Cup, extends his hand with humility and it is refused, that is unacceptable,” Amarilla said, while condemning the incident in strong terms.
Her comments quickly went viral, drawing criticism from football fans and observers across the world, who questioned the use of such language in a formal political setting.
Dispute rooted in post-match incident
The dispute reportedly began after Mbappe declined to shake hands with Gill following the final whistle. Amarilla interpreted the act as disrespectful, especially given the occasion for the Paraguayan goalkeeper.
The senator also alleged that racist remarks were made after the match, although no official confirmation has been provided regarding these claims.
In earlier statements, Amarilla had issued a warning to Mbappe, urging him to apologise and even suggesting possible legal action. She referenced the case of Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho, who was detained in Paraguay in 2020, as an example of the country’s legal enforcement.
Mbappe reportedly responds
According to reports, Mbappe responded to Amarilla’s criticism by calling her remarks inappropriate and unworthy of a public office holder. While the exact details of the exchange remain unclear, the verbal sparring has further fuelled the controversy.
Amarilla, however, continued her criticism and expanded it to include broader reflections on French identity and values.
“France represents a rich cultural and intellectual legacy, and it should not be reduced to the actions of one individual,” she said, referencing notable French thinkers and historical contributions.
France focus remains on football
Despite the off-field controversy, France head coach Didier Deschamps dismissed concerns about its impact on the team’s preparations.
“Kylian is in a good place mentally. He’s ready,” Deschamps said during a press conference ahead of France’s quarter-final clash against Morocco.
France have been one of the strongest teams in the tournament so far and remain focused on their campaign as they aim for another World Cup title.
Conclusion
The incident highlights how off-field controversies can overshadow major sporting events, particularly when political figures become involved. While the exchange between Amarilla and Mbappe continues to attract attention, France will look to keep their focus on the pitch as the tournament enters its decisive phase.