Mariano Rajoy, the former Prime Minister of Spain, has sparked controversy with a racist statement following Spain’s qualification for the World Cup semifinal against France. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez sharply condemned Rajoy’s comments, labeling them as “absolutely unacceptable.” Nunez emphasized that such statements do not reflect the values of France, which he described as a country of diversity where everyone can thrive.
The semifinal match between France and Spain is scheduled for July 14 at 10 PM. In an opinion piece published in the Spanish newspaper El Debate, Rajoy remarked, “France is first in the FIFA rankings. They have a very high level, but of course without the French.”
Reactions to Rajoy’s Racist Remarks from French Officials
In an interview with BMF TV, Minister Nunez responded forcefully to Rajoy’s objectionable statement. He stated, “If this remark is accurate, it is absolutely unacceptable. It does not reflect at all what France is about.” Nunez further framed the controversy within the broader discussion of national identity, rejecting the divide between a “historical” or “Christian France,” as propagated by the far-right, and a “new France” associated with the far-left. “There is only one France,” he asserted, “a Republic where everyone must find their place, regardless of origin, beliefs, or religion, as long as they respect the common rules of the Republic.”
Nunez added, “I believe we still have a long way to go to live together in harmony.”
Second Racist Attack Against France at the World Cup
Kylian Mbappe, the leading scorer for France in the tournament, was also targeted in a racist attack by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla after the French team eliminated Paraguay in the round of 16. Amarilla accused Mbappe of not greeting Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill at the end of the match and made severe racist comments about him on social media. In response, the French star also addressed the issue online.
