Football supporters in Paraguay sparked attention during the annual San Juan festival after a Lionel Messi sculpture was set alight as part of a traditional celebration. Footage shared on Instagram by Steven Pegelow showed groups of Paraguay fans taking part in festivities on July 4, one of the country's most recognised cultural events. During the celebrations, a figure representing the Argentine superstar was burned in front of spectators.

The act is linked to the long-standing “Judas Kai” tradition, in which an unpopular or controversial public figure is symbolically burned as part of the festival. The custom has been practiced for generations and is often used to express public frustration or criticism.

The incident has reignited discussion about football rivalries in South America, particularly involving Argentina and its biggest stars. While Messi is widely admired around the world, the festival display highlighted lingering tensions among some supporters in Paraguay.

The scene also drew comparisons to events surrounding Kylian Mbappé following the 2022 FIFA World Cup final. After Argentina defeated France in one of the most dramatic finals in tournament history, celebrations in Buenos Aires included the burning of a coffin bearing Mbappé’s image.

The rivalry continued in the weeks that followed, with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez attracting criticism for mocking the French forward during post-tournament celebrations. Despite occasional controversy, Mbappé’s reputation has continued to grow internationally. In France, thousands of supporters previously signed a petition expressing support for the striker after the World Cup final defeat, underlining his popularity both at home and abroad.

Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé has publicly condemned racist remarks made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla following France’s 1–0 victory over Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.What began as post-match tensions quickly escalated into an international controversy, with Amarilla’s comments drawing widespread criticism. Mbappé responded publicly, before receiving support from the French Football Federation, French President Emmanuel Macron and Real Madrid, while French authorities launched an investigation following a complaint by the FFF.