French national team star Kylian Mbappé, who is competing in the ongoing World Cup, was subjected to racist abuse by a Paraguayan official online, prompting the striker and France's sports minister to condemn her remarks.
France had beaten Paraguay in the round of 16 of the tournament being held in the United States, Mexico and Canada, with Mbappé scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot.
Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla de Putchia commented on a post about the French striker, writing: "Bruto didn't even learn to write; instead of his mother's milk, he was suckled on coconut — that's the most information I've heard about the chimpanzee."
Mbappé responded to a photo of her on the platform X, saying: "You don't deserve your position, and you don't represent Paraguay."
He added: "Because of your ignorance and racism, the world has already forgotten the historic run and the commitment of your team's players during the World Cup, making way for a woman who damages her country's reputation."
Mbappé also said he would never give people like her the freedom to spread their hatred and racism in the world.
French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari also expressed her strong anger over the senator's remarks.
Ferrari wrote on her official page on X: "These are vile, inappropriate and strongly rejected statements, especially coming from a political figure."