Former Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy faces racism accusations over French team comments

Mariano Rajoy, who served as Spain's conservative prime minister between 2011 and 2018, has ignited a firestorm of controversy with remarks made in an article for the online publication El Debate. The piece, published on Friday, was written in anticipation of a potential World Cup semi-final clash between Spain and France.

In his column, Rajoy controversially stated that the French national team "does not have any French players." This assertion has led to a growing number of critics, including political figures from both Spain and France, labelling his comments as racist. The remarks have sparked significant backlash and condemnation.