Argentina’s soccer team faced criticism for racist chants made by players after winning the Copa America, prompting calls for team captain Lionel Messi and the president of the country’s soccer federation to apologize. A video surfaced showing the squad singing a derogatory chant about French players with African heritage. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez apologized for his involvement, and Chelsea, his club, initiated disciplinary action. The Argentine government official also called for Messi and the federation president to apologize. The incident was condemned by FIFA, who pledged to investigate.
The chants, also heard from Argentina fans at the 2022 World Cup final against France, targeted French players of African descent. Chelsea player Wesley Fofana, who has family ties to Ivory Coast, called out the racism in the video and the club initiated disciplinary procedures. Fernandez, who became the most expensive British player in history in 2023, apologized for his actions during the celebration.
FIFA has stressed a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and has committed to monitoring such incidents. While it is unclear what jurisdiction FIFA has over the incident, they could intervene if the Argentina federation’s response is deemed inadequate. The incident has sparked conversations about the need to address racism in soccer and promote inclusivity.
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