The UN human rights office on Tuesday condemned racist remarks made by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla against French footballer Kylian Mbappe, calling them “despicable” and part of a broader pattern of racism in sport.
UN Human Rights spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said reports of racist incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup reflected a wider problem across football and stressed that public officials have a responsibility to oppose racism, discrimination and hate speech.
The UN also urged governments, sports organisations and social media companies to strengthen efforts to prevent racial discrimination and ensure effective accountability.
The statement followed comments made by Amarilla on X after Paraguay’s 1-0 defeat to France in the World Cup Round of 16, in which she criticised Mbappe’s Cameroonian heritage, appearance and background.