TV commentator calls France “African country” during World Cup match

A DirecTV Sports commentator has come under fire after referring to Senegal as “Senegral” and describing France as an “African country” during halftime of the France–Senegal match at the 2026 World Cup.

The remark, widely condemned as racist, has triggered anger from Dakar to the diaspora, Footafrica reports.

In Argentina, mocking the origins of French players has been described as an “unfortunate habit.” Following a racist chant during the 2024 Copa América celebrations and comments by then Vice-President Victoria Villarruel — which prompted an official apology from Buenos Aires to France — another controversy has now emerged.

During the halftime analysis of France–Senegal (3–1), DirecTV Sports commentator Pablo Giralt, as identified by Argentine media, first referred to Senegal as “Senegral,” before describing the match as a clash “between two African countries.”

The implication, observers noted, was clear. By grouping France among African nations, the remark was interpreted as a reference to the origins of many French international players, effectively turning African identity into a form of insult. The comment has drawn criticism well beyond France, with reactions spreading from Dakar across the wider diaspora.

The clip was first circulated by an Argentine account that appeared to celebrate the remark, further amplifying the backlash. As of now, neither the broadcaster nor the commentator has issued any public response.

The incident has drawn parallels with controversies from 2024, raising questions over whether it will lead to further repercussions.

By Vafa Guliyeva