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Ex-PM Rajoy’s “No French Players” Remark Sparks Xenophobia Outcry

7/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said Spain's team had “no French players,” sparking criticism before the World Cup semifinal.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the remark as xenophobic, saying belonging is measured by love and contribution.
French officials, including Interior Minister Laurent Nunez and Football Federation president Philippe Diallo, called the comment unacceptable and racist.
Transport Minister Oscar Puente dismissed Rajoy as a “post-Franco idiot.”

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Story summary

Former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said Spain's team had “no French players,” sparking criticism before the World Cup semifinal.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the remark as xenophobic, saying belonging is measured by love and contribution.
French officials, including Interior Minister Laurent Nunez and Football Federation president Philippe Diallo, called the comment unacceptable and racist.
Transport Minister Oscar Puente dismissed Rajoy as a “post-Franco idiot.”