Until just days ago, Celeste Amarilla was known primarily within Paraguay’s political circles. But recently, the Paraguayan senator has landed at the center of an international firestorm following a series of racist rants and vile comments targeting French football superstar Kylian Mbappé.
A Political Figure Who Thrives on Controversy
Amarilla is one of Paraguay’s most prominent—and polarizing—political figures. A lawyer by profession, she became a senator in 2023. She rose to global attention after posting racist remarks and insults against Mbappé on social media and even delivered similar offensive statements inside the Senate chamber.
Her comments triggered strong backlash both domestically and internationally, reigniting a broader debate about the limits of public speech and the responsibility of elected officials. Unfazed, Amarilla—often described as a politician who thrives on confrontation—showed no sign of remorse.
Background and Political Path
Celeste Josefina Amarilla Goitia was born on October 21, 1964, in San Juan Bautista, Paraguay. She studied law and built a career as a lawyer specializing in constitutional and public law. Her work in public administration and state institutions eventually led her into politics. She joined the Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA), one of Paraguay’s largest opposition parties.
Amarilla was first elected to Congress in 2018, representing Asunción—the capital city. During her term, she gained notoriety for her combative public interventions, delivering sharp criticism not only toward political opponents but also toward senior members of her own party.