Following the racist remarks of the Argentine deputy governor, he was declared 'persona non grata' in France

The French Embassy in Argentina declared the deputy governor of Mendoza province, Hebe Casado, "persona non grata" following his racist remarks about the France national football team and star player Kylian Mbappé. The decision came after Casado targeted French players by describing them as "uneducated Africans" on social media following the match where France beat Paraguay 1-0.

Ambassador Romain Nadal stated that the racist nature of the remarks was undeniable, announcing that Casado would not be allowed to participate in any official meetings with the embassy. Nadal used the expression "Racism is not an opinion, it is a crime," emphasizing that there can be no place for racism in France-Argentina cooperation.

In a statement following the international backlash, Casado claimed that his words were merely "football folklore," asserting that he did not intend racism. Although this decision, which has diplomatic implications, does not prevent the deputy governor from traveling to France for tourism, it has caused a serious restriction in official contacts between the Mendoza government and French authorities.