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Rajoy's “No French Players” Remark Sparks Racism Outcry

7/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said on July 10 that France’s team “has no French players,” sparking racism accusations.
Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and Football Federation president Philippe Diallo called the remark racist.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez posted “racism must lose,” denouncing the comment.
Defender Pau Cubarsí urged tolerance, saying French players are French.
The semifinal is Tuesday in Dallas, with France listing 26 players, 23 born in France and three abroad.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said on July 10 that France’s team “has no French players,” sparking racism accusations.
Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and Football Federation president Philippe Diallo called the remark racist.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez posted “racism must lose,” denouncing the comment.
Defender Pau Cubarsí urged tolerance, saying French players are French.
The semifinal is Tuesday in Dallas, with France listing 26 players, 23 born in France and three abroad.