FIFA said on Wednesday it had launched an investigation into racist chants that appeared in a video posted on social media featuring Argentina players after their Copa America victory.
“FIFA has become aware of the video that has been circulated on social media and the incident is being investigated. FIFA strongly condemns all forms of discrimination by anyone, including players, fans and officials,” the organization said.
FIFA’s position comes after a complaint from the French Football Federation (FFF), whose players were the subject of attention in the video, prompting the organisation to also file a complaint with the court over “racist and discriminatory insults”.
“Given the seriousness of the shocking comments, which are contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the FFF president has contacted his Argentine counterpart and FIFA directly and has decided to file a complaint with the court regarding racial and discriminatory insults,” the Gallic federation said in a statement.
The chants heard in a video filmed on an Argentine bus, with Enzo Fernandez singing in close-up and on camera, began with some Albicelestes fans during the 2022 World Cup, alluding to the African origins of the French players, as well as a transphobic comment about an alleged relationship with Kylian Mbappe.
Argentina won the 2022 World Cup title in the final against France at the competition held in Qatar.
The attitude of the midfielder, a former Benfica player and now playing for Chelsea, also prompted the English club to initiate disciplinary proceedings against Enzo Fernandes.
Chelsea FC considers any form of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. We pride ourselves on being a diverse and inclusive club where all people are welcome, regardless of culture, community and identity. We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s request for a public apology and we will use this as a learning opportunity. The club has initiated an internal disciplinary process,” Chelsea said in a statement.
The Blues news came after Enzo Fernandes posted an apology on Instagram on Tuesday.
“The song contains very offensive language and there is no justification for these words. I am against all forms of discrimination and I apologize for being carried away by the euphoria of celebrating the America’s Cup,” the midfielder wrote.
Argentina, the reigning world champions, won the Copa America for the second time in a row on Sunday night, beating Colombia 1-0 in the final, with Lautaro Martinez scoring in extra time in the 112th minute.
Author: Lusa
Source: CM Jornal
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