15/07/2026 03:58 - Actualidad
The incident occurs amidst the 2026 World Cup semifinals and France's National Day celebrations.
The Vice Governor of Mendoza (a prominent wine-producing province in western Argentina), Hebe Casado, found herself in hot water after mocking the French national soccer team, referring to them as an African team. These comments echoed statements made by former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who on July 10, 2026, claimed France plays without Frenchmen. The controversy escalated into a full-blown diplomatic row, reaching the French Embassy in Argentina.
On July 14, 2026, coinciding with the celebration of the 237th anniversary of the French Revolution (commonly known as Bastille Day), the French Embassy in Argentina condemned the racist remarks directed at their team. They clarified that out of the 26 players in the squad, 23 were born in France, and the remaining 3 (Michael Olise, Marcus Thuram, and Brice Samba) were born abroad but hold French nationality. In an attempt to defuse the situation, the Governor of Mendoza, Alfredo Cornejo, also published a message regarding the French team.
Parallel to the diplomatic friction, it emerged that there is a criminal complaint against Hebe Casado that is currently facing judicial delays. The plaintiffs have criticized this situation and are demanding that the criminal investigation proceed without further delays, highlighting concerns about the administration of justice in the province.
On the sporting front, the French national team was defeated by Spain 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup semifinal played on July 14, 2026, at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, USA. Following the defeat, Vice Governor Casado posted another message on social media celebrating the French team's downfall, further fueling the debate amid the ongoing diplomatic tension.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
