French prosecutors open investigation after Paraguay senator targets Mbappé
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- French prosecutors have launched an investigation into aggravated public insult and incitement to hatred after Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla racially abused Kylian Mbappé following France's World Cup victory over Paraguay.
- Amarilla posted racist comments on social media mocking Mbappé's origins and appearance, prompting a complaint from the French Football Federation and condemnation from French officials including President Emmanuel Macron.
- The Paris prosecutor's office stated it can investigate statements made abroad when the victim is French, with potential penalties of up to one year imprisonment and a €45,000 fine.
- Amarilla denied being formally notified of legal proceedings and claimed France has no jurisdiction, while Mbappé condemned her as unworthy of her congressional role.
- The Paraguayan government condemned Amarilla's remarks as contrary to national values and clarified her comments do not represent the government or people of Paraguay.
