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Former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy criticised over France team comments

Spain’s former prime minister Mariano Rajoy faces backlash in Spain and France following remarks regarding the composition of the French national football team.

By 13 Jul 2026 · 08:00 CET Updated 13 Jul 2026 · 08:00 CET

AI disclosure: Summarised from a single named source by an AI model with editorial rules; links to the original report.

According to The Local, Mariano Rajoy has drawn criticism after claiming the French national football team had no French players. The remarks, which have been described as xenophobic, have prompted a negative response both within Spain and across the border in France. The former conservative prime minister made the comments on Sunday, leading to widespread discussion regarding his characterisation of the squad.

The controversy follows the publication of these remarks, which have sparked debate over the team's composition. No further details regarding Rajoy’s specific reasoning or subsequent reaction have been provided by The Local.

Source: The Local. Read the original report ↗

Source ledger

  • This brief is based on reporting by The Local.
    supports: The Local Europe