Chelsea Football Club has initiated disciplinary proceedings against midfielder Enzo Fernandez following a video he posted on social media. The French Football Federation (FFF) has accused Fernandez of sharing an alleged “racist and discriminatory” chant.
The FFF announced its intention to file a complaint with FIFA regarding the video, which features members of the Argentine squad singing a song that targets France’s black players. Wesley Fofana, Fernandez’s teammate at Chelsea, shared the video on Instagram, condemning it as “uninhibited racism.”
Fernandez, who became Chelsea’s record signing in February 2023 at £107 million, issued an apology, expressing regret for his actions during Argentina’s Copa America celebrations.
FIFA has launched an investigation into the video, which originally featured Argentine players singing a chant questioning the heritage of France’s black and mixed-race players.
Chelsea, whose first-team squad includes seven black or mixed-race French players, released a statement affirming their zero-tolerance stance against discrimination. The club acknowledged Fernandez’s public apology and announced internal disciplinary procedures.
The FFF plans to contact the Argentine Football Association (AFA) regarding Fernandez’s live video following Argentina’s victory over Colombia in the Copa America final. FFF president Philippe Diallo condemned the remarks and announced legal action against racially offensive and discriminatory comments.
FIFA, acknowledging the video circulating on social media, strongly condemned all forms of discrimination and stated that they are actively investigating the incident.
Chelsea emphasized its commitment to combatting discriminatory behavior, reaffirming its identity as a club that embraces diversity and inclusivity.
David Datro Fofana, another Chelsea player, called for action against racism in football, underscoring the sport’s multicultural essence.
Anti-discrimination organizations, including Kick It Out and Show Racism the Red Card, also condemned the incident, urging comprehensive actions to address racial issues within football.
Former Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano defended Fernandez, stating that the video was taken out of context and emphasizing Argentina’s inclusivity.
The Argentine Football Association has not yet provided a statement regarding the matter.
