Following a complaint by the French Football Federation, FIFA has initiated an investigation into alleged racist and homophobic chants by Argentinian players, including midfielder Enzo Fernandez, after the Copa America final. The controversial chant, which dates back to the 2022 France-Argentina World Cup final, specifically targets French striker Kylian Mbappé and others. Chelsea has also taken disciplinary action against Fernandez.
FIFA confirmed the investigation on Wednesday, acknowledging a video circulating on social media that captured the offensive chants. A spokesperson for FIFA stated, “FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone including players, fans, and officials.” The chants were reportedly heard during a live video posted by Fernandez from the team bus following Argentina’s Copa America victory over Colombia in Miami.
The chant, resurrected from the 2022 World Cup final, contains racist and homophobic language, targeting several players, including Mbappé. In response to the incident, Chelsea has initiated an internal disciplinary procedure against Fernandez, emphasizing that the club finds all forms of discriminatory behavior completely unacceptable.
Fernandez has since issued a public apology, stating, “The song includes highly offensive language, and there is absolutely no excuse for these words. I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologize for getting caught up in the euphoria of our Copa America celebrations.”
The French Football Federation (FFF) lodged a formal complaint with FIFA on Monday. FFF president Philippe Diallo condemned the remarks, expressing strong disapproval and labeling them as “unacceptable racist and discriminatory remarks made against players of the France team.” This incident has underscored the ongoing issues of discrimination in football, prompting both FIFA and individual clubs to take decisive action.
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