Paraguayan Senator Threatens Mbappe Amid Heated Political Row Over World Cup Gesture

Tensions between French football star Kylian Mbappe and Paraguayan politicians escalated sharply after Mbappe refused to shake hands with Paraguay's goalkeeper Orlando Gill during a recent World Cup event. Paraguayan Senator Celeste Arrieta used a parliamentary session on July 8, 2026, to launch a fierce verbal attack on Mbappe, calling him derogatory names and questioning his French identity. Arrieta stated, "When a kid, probably his first time in Europe, humbly offers his hand and that son of a bitch refuses and yells at him, that’s not French," emphasizing that France represents cultural icons like Rousseau, Descartes, Victor Hugo, and human rights, not Mbappe's behavior.

When local journalists asked if she would retract her statements, Arrieta intensified her rhetoric, threatening Mbappe with legal action for alleged gender and political violence against women. She warned, "Don’t mess with Paraguayans, Mbappe. We already put Ronaldinho in jail for being a little corrupt. Don’t get involved with me; I can hire a lawyer and sue you. He should apologize." She also claimed to have sent Mbappe a letter in French and Spanish, mocking his literacy and cautioning him to beware of Paraguayans.

The controversy prompted Paraguayan President Santiago Peña to intervene diplomatically, condemning all forms of discrimination and reaffirming Paraguay’s commitment to human rights and freedom of expression. He stated, "We are absolutely opposed to any kind of discrimination. Paraguay will always zealously protect human rights, freedom of expression, and oppose all forms of discrimination." This incident adds to the ongoing political drama surrounding the 2026 World Cup and highlights the sensitive nature of international sports diplomacy.