Sports Minister Marina Ferrari defends Mbappé ahead of 2026 World Cup
Marina Ferrari, France's minister of sport, youth and associative life, sat for an exclusive Ouest‑France interview ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The tournament kicks off on 11 June in America.
Ferrari said the French squad's collective strength is a priority. She defended captain Kylian Mbappé against excessive criticism.
She addressed how players' remarks will be managed during the competition. Ferrari criticised the instrumentalisation of former US president Donald Trump in football discourse.
She highlighted upcoming festivities across France to celebrate the national team's participation. The minister promised support for fan events throughout the tournament.
Ferrari concluded that the ministry will monitor the team's performance from the opening match onward. The interview provides her perspective ahead of the global competition.