In a dramatic display of frustration, Paraguayan fans burned an effigy of Kylian Mbappé during the traditional San Juan festival in Asuncion, following their national team's loss to France in the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup. The match, which ended with a 1-0 victory for France thanks to a goal from Mbappé, saw Paraguay exit the tournament, leading to a wave of discontent among supporters.

Video footage shared on social media captured the moment when the effigy, labeled 'Mbappé', was set ablaze amidst cheers and applause from the crowd. This act is part of the Judas Kai ritual, a local tradition where effigies of the year's most disliked or controversial figures are burned. While the ritual is meant to be humorous and symbolic rather than violent, the choice of Mbappé as the target reflects the anger of some Paraguayan fans over his perceived provocations during the match.

Mbappé faced criticism for his actions, including not shaking hands with Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill after the game, and for his remarks suggesting that France had effectively countered Paraguay's 'dirty play'. Many fans and officials in Paraguay found these comments disrespectful.

The situation escalated when Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla made racially charged comments about Mbappé on social media, referring to him in derogatory terms. In response, Mbappé labeled Amarilla as a 'despicable woman' unworthy of her position, condemning her remarks and highlighting the negative impact of such statements on Paraguay's image internationally.

Despite the backlash, Mbappé acknowledged Paraguay's efforts in the tournament, praising their 'sweat, passion, and honor'. The French Football Federation announced plans to pursue legal action against Amarilla for her comments, which they deemed unacceptable. French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari also expressed support for Mbappé.

In Paraguay, reactions were mixed, with some officials, including Congress President Basilio Nunez, condemning Amarilla's remarks. The Paraguayan President reportedly contacted the French President to express disapproval of the attacks on Mbappé. Facing public pressure, Amarilla deleted her post and issued an apology, although she also demanded an apology from Mbappé for his comments about her.

UN officials condemned Amarilla's remarks, calling them reflective of the ongoing issue of racism in football and urging governments and sports organizations to combat hate speech. FIFA expressed deep concern over the issue, emphasizing that racism has no place in football. Football legend George Weah also called for solidarity with Mbappé and a zero-tolerance stance against discrimination.