Pedro Sanchez, Prime Minister (PM) of Spain, has reacted to “xenophobic statements” made by former Spain PM, Mariano Rajoy, about the French Men’s football team.
Rajoy’s racist sentiments ignited kickback from France and left-wing Parties of Spain ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi final match between France and Spain.
According to POLITICO:
In an article published in the Spanish daily El Debate, Rajoy describe the French team as a “very high-level squad. Of course, without Frenchmen,” alluding to the African origins of some of the players.
Rajoy’s comments sparked reactions from socialists and communist parties in France and Spain.
Rajoy’s article also made a jab at the Spanish left by stating he does not like “either the Devils or the reds,” in a reference to the Belgian football team, known as the Red Devils, who lost against Spain on Friday.
Reacting to Rajoy’s racist statement, PM Sanchez said on X, some people “still measure belonging by skin colour”.
He further said, Spain is on the side of those “who love it and work for it”, describing Rajoy’s statement as “xenophobic”.
Sanchez bade France welcome to the semi finals, and said, the “best one” will definitely emerge victorious when the Les Bleus and La Roja collide in Dallas, and “may racism lose”.
PM Pedro Sanchez reacted: “There are those who still measure belonging by surname, place of birth, or skin color.
“Others measure it by our roots in a country and our will to contribute to it. Playing soccer. Caring for our elders. Or opening businesses.
“Spain belongs to those who love it and work for it. Not to those who shame it with xenophobic statements.
“France, we’ll see you in the semifinals. May the best one win and may racism lose.”
France and Spain will play in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi final on Tuesday 14 July, 2026 at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, United States (US) at 20:00 (WAT).
Mariano Rajoy led the Spanish government between 2011 and 2018.
Photo: Spain PM, Pedro Sanchez | Former Spain PM, Mariano Rajoy
