Enzo Fernandez faces backlash over racist chant video

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is facing disciplinary action after a video surfaced showing him and other members of the Argentina national team singing a song containing racist and discriminatory lyrics targeting France’s black players.

The video, posted on social media following Argentina’s Copa America victory, has sparked outrage, with Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana labelling it “uninhibited racism.”

The French Football Federation (FFF) has filed a complaint with FIFA over the incident, condemning the “unacceptable and discriminatory remarks.”

Fernandez has since apologised, stating that the video does not reflect his beliefs and that he was caught up in the euphoria of the victory. Chelsea have initiated an internal investigation and pledged to use the situation as an opportunity to educate.

pic.twitter.com/fMuBjUiOsl

— Enzo Fernández (@IEnzofernandez8) July 16, 2024

FIFA has also launched an investigation into the matter, strongly condemning any form of discrimination. The incident has put a spotlight on the issue of racism in football, with both Chelsea and the FFF emphasizing their commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The video has added fuel to the rivalry between Argentina and France, who have faced each other in the last two World Cup knockout stages.

France beat Argentina in the last 16 of the 2018 World Cup, and Argentina beat France in the final of the 2022 World Cup.

With seven black or mixed-race players in their squad, Chelsea find themselves in a delicate situation as they navigate the fallout from the incident.