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Chilavert refers to France as 'team from Africa' on social media

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 3:34 PM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

Chilavert refers to France as 'team from Africa' on social media

Summary

Former Paraguay goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert faced backlash for a statement made on X, in which he referred to France as a 'team from Africa' ahead of their World Cup matchup. His comment followed Christophe Dugarry's assertion on RMC radio that Paraguay would 'get thrashed' in their round of 16 match. The remarks have been deemed racist by various media and social media users. Chilavert's statement references the ethnic backgrounds of several French players, reflecting an ongoing debate about race in football. The incident follows other controversial remarks related to France's diverse roster, highlighting a broader discourse on race in the sport.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Chilavert's comment criticized as racist by media and users.
•Dugarry claimed Paraguay would struggle against France.
•Chilavert was goalkeeper in Paraguay's 1998 World Cup match against France.
•Discussion on racial identity in football has resurged.
•Previous incidents of similar remarks from Argentinian players noted.

Latest Updates

3:34 PMYahoo Sports — Former Paraguay keeper Chilavert names France 'team from Africa'

What they're saying

"
Former Paraguay goalkeepoer José Luis Chilavert has caused a stir with a social media statement deemed as racist in the direction of their next World Cup opponents France. Ex-France player Christophe Dugarry had said on RMC radio that Paraguay would "get thrashed" later on Sunday in the round of 16 because "they are incapable of creating any play.
— Yahoo Sports

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