Dispute Erupts Between Paraguayan Senator and Kylian Mbappé

On Tuesday night, Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla accused French soccer star Kylian Mbappé of “gender violence” and hinted at possible legal action after he called her a “despicable woman” on social media.

Mbappé’s remarks, which he shared online and were echoed by French President Emmanuel Macron, came after Amarilla posted several derogatory comments about him, which she later deleted. In her posts, she criticized Mbappé, claiming he had “smoked coconuts” as a child and referred to him as a “colonized Cameroonian pretending to be French.” These comments were made following a tense FIFA World Cup match on Saturday where France narrowly defeated Paraguay 1-0.

Paraguay is known for its aggressive style of soccer, and during the match, Mbappé was filmed directing insults in Spanish toward Paraguayan players, raising eyebrows and criticism. Some even noted his refusal to shake hands with Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gil.

Following the game, Amarilla took to Twitter, saying, “Brut didn’t even learn to write. He sucked coconuts instead of breast milk and the most educated thing he heard was a chimpanzee.” In another now-deleted message, she labeled him “resentful and arrogant.”

In response, Mbappé wrote on his social media that Amarilla was “unworthy of her position” and emphasized that she does not represent Paraguay, which he described as a nation passionate about sports, accusing her of “brazen racism.”

Macron, on a significant visit to Syria, also voiced support for Mbappé, underscoring values of dignity and respect amidst the dispute.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Paraguay, representing President Santiago Peña’s government, promptly distanced itself from Amarilla’s statements and denounced her remarks.

“Paraguay is a democratic republic, and the statements made represent personal responsibility and do not reflect the government’s stance,” the ministry asserted, expressing solidarity with anyone affected by Amarilla’s comments while reaffirming supportive ties with France.

The conflict escalated as Senator Amarilla shared a public letter, issued a threat of legal action against Mbappé, and clarified her respect for France, asserting that her issue is solely with him. She notably criticized Mbappé’s behavior during the match, emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship.

In her various messages, Amarilla identified herself as a victim of racism and spoke proudly about her heritage, yet confronted Mbappé about his comments regarding the Paraguayan team and accused him of hostility.

In one statement, she expressed regret and noted the discomfort her comments may have caused. She demanded a retraction and an apology from Mbappé, asserting that his statements crossed a line into gender violence.

In a recent interview, Amarilla characterized her earlier comments as representative of public sentiment but insisted there was no malice toward the French or Cameroonians. Nonetheless, she articulated a strong reaction to Mbappé’s words, suggesting they were an act of violence against women. She concluded with an uncertain but firm declaration of her ability to follow through on legal actions if necessary.