Yamal condemns racist comments before Spain clash with France

Spain's young star Lamine Yamal highlighted football's power to unite people after a racist remark by former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy ahead of the World Cup semifinal against France.

"If football can achieve anything, it is bringing people together. Both France and we are examples of integration," the winger said on his 19th birthday.

"Integration is what football is all about—not worrying about what others say. Tomorrow we are playing one of the greatest matches you can experience at a World Cup. I don't think this is the right time to discuss it," Yamal said, dismissing the former Spanish prime minister's remarks ahead of Tuesday's semifinal against France, scheduled to kick off at 9 p.m. Central European Time in Dallas, CE Report quotes STA.

Rajoy, a former politician from the conservative People's Party (PP), wrote in an article for the online newspaper El Debate that France has an outstanding team, but claimed that it has no French players.

His comments sparked strong condemnation in both France and Spain ahead of the World Cup match.

France midfielder Warren Zaïre-Emery said he had not read the article.

"This French national team is made up of players from different backgrounds and origins—just like the country itself," Zaïre-Emery said. "We are a united group, a united team, and that's all that matters."

France captain Kylian Mbappé has also been the target of racist remarks during the tournament, after Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla made offensive comments about him.

Responding to the insults, Mbappé said she was unworthy of her position.

"You do not represent Paraguay. Because of your ignorance and shameless racism, the world has already forgotten the historic and inspiring journey of your players at this World Cup. You are an incompetent woman spreading the worst image of your country," Mbappé said several days ago.

Photo: Instagram/lamineyamal