Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla has demanded an apology from French footballer Kylian Mbappé and threatened legal action, accusing him of "gender-based violence." The dispute stems from comments Mbappé made after Paraguay's World Cup exit, where he called Amarilla "unworthy." Amarilla, initially making racial slurs herself, has since apologized for her own remarks but insists Mbappé's comments constitute political violence against a woman.

Amarilla's initial comments, made in the "heat of the moment," criticized Mbappé's perceived arrogance and contempt, particularly his refusal to shake hands with the Paraguayan goalkeeper. The French Football Federation (FFF) and French President Emmanuel Macron have supported Mbappé, with the FFF announcing plans to file criminal charges against Amarilla for aggravated public insult and incitement to hatred. The Paraguayan government has officially condemned Amarilla's racist remarks, stating they do not represent the nation's position.

This controversy follows a separate pre-match incident where former Paraguay goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert faced accusations of racism. Mbappé has been a standout performer in the World Cup, scoring seven goals. France is set to face Morocco in the quarterfinals.