Captain of the French national football team, Kylian Mbappé, has spoken out about the political turmoil in France ahead of Euro 2024, calling it a critical moment in the country’s history.
He expressed concern over the rise of extremist politics and urged the French people, especially the youth, to actively participate in shaping the nation’s future.
“This is a never-seen-before event. And that is why I want to talk to the whole of the French people, but also the youth.
“We are a generation that can make a difference. We see the extremes are knocking on the door of power and we have the opportunity to shape our country’s future,” Mbappé said.
Mbappé stressed the importance of values like diversity, tolerance, and respect, stating that these principles should be upheld in France.
He stated that while football and politics are typically kept separate, the current situation in France is too significant to ignore, indicating that actions may be taken to address these concerns.
“I share his opinion. I share the same opinion when I spoke about diversity, tolerance and respect.
“The game tomorrow is very important. I think that I am well placed to say and I’ve said it until I’m blue in the face, but there is a situation that is even more important than the game.
“Kylian Mbappé is against extreme views and against ideas that divide people. I want to be proud to represent France, I don’t want to represent a country that doesn’t correspond to my values, or our values,” said Mbappé.
The French Football Federation (FFF) had previously requested that the national team remain politically neutral, but Mbappé and teammate Marcus Thuram openly discussed their opposition to far-right politics gaining ground in the upcoming parliamentary election.
Coach Didier Deschamps supported his players’ rights to express their views, acknowledging their role as athletes and citizens affected by the country’s political climate.
Mbappé’s comments have sparked debate about the appropriate role of sports figures in political discourse, against a backdrop of heightened tension and uncertainty in French politics.