FIFA has officially launched an investigation into the racist chants sung by Argentine players, including Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández, following their Copa América 2024 victory. The incident, which occurred during a live-streamed video on the team bus, featured offensive lyrics mocking the African heritage of French players, particularly targeting Kylian Mbappé.The French Football Federation (FFF) has filed formal complaints with FIFA and judicial authorities, condemning the chants as ‘unacceptable racist and discriminatory remarks’. In response, Chelsea FC has initiated an internal disciplinary procedure against Fernández, describing his behavior as ‘completely unacceptable’.Amid growing international backlash, the Argentine government, led by President Javier Milei, has called for team captain Lionel Messi and Argentine Football Association (AFA) president Claudio Tapia to issue public apologies. Julio Garro, the Argentine Deputy Sports Minister, initially stated, ‘I think the national team captain should come out and apologize for this incident. The same applies to the AFA president’. However, he later retracted his statement regarding Messi, citing potential disrespect.Enzo Fernández has issued an apology on Instagram, stating that the video does not reflect his beliefs or character and that he regrets letting his emotions overtake him during the celebrations. Meanwhile, Argentine Olympic team coach Javier Mascherano has defended the players, claiming the video was taken out of context and attributing the incident to cultural misunderstanding.The controversy has sparked a broader debate about racism in football and cultural sensitivity. FIFA has reiterated its stance against all forms of discrimination, including those by players, fans, and officials. As the investigation unfolds, the incident continues to strain diplomatic relations between Argentina and France, highlighting the need for greater awareness and respect in international sports.
Key points
- FIFA has opened an official investigation into racist chants by Argentine players after their Copa América victory.
- The Argentine government has called for apologies from team captain Lionel Messi and AFA president Claudio Tapia.
- Chelsea FC has initiated disciplinary procedures against Enzo Fernández for his involvement in the incident.
- The controversy has sparked a debate about cultural sensitivity and racism in international football.
Contradictions👾Argentine Deputy Sports Minister Julio Garro initially called for Lionel Messi to apologize, but later denied making this statement, saying it would be disrespectful to Messi.
👾While some sources report that Lionel Messi should apologize, it’s unclear whether Messi participated in the chants.
