FIFA announced on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 that it is opening an investigation into racist chants made by Argentina players after their Copa America victory.
A spokesperson for world football’s governing body said, “FIFA is aware of a video circulating on social media and the incident is being looked into. FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone including players, fans and officials.”
The chants were heard during a live video posted on social media by Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from the team bus following their Copa America win over Colombia in Miami on Sunday. Some players, including Fernandez, were singing a chant from the 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina beat France. The song targets France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe and includes homophobic insults.
The French Football Federation has lodged a complaint with FIFA about the chants.
Chelsea announced they have launched an internal disciplinary procedure against Fernandez over the incident. Fernandez, the most expensive transfer in Premier League history, has since apologized.
In a statement, Chelsea Football Club said, “Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate. The Club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure,” the statement concluded.
