FIFA has opened an investigation into a video purportedly featuring members of the Argentina national team singing a song with offensive and racist lyrics regarding French players that is making the rounds on social media.
The video was denounced by the French Football Federation (FFF), which also declared that it would be lodging a protest with the world football regulatory body.
“FIFA is aware of a video circulating on social media and the incident is being looked into,” a FIFA spokesperson said in a statement. “FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone, including players, fans, and officials.”
The dispute erupted after Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana called the video, tweeted by his club teammate Enzo Fernandez, “uninhibited racism.”
Fernandez later apologised on social media, claiming that he was “caught up in the euphoria of our celebrations” and admitting that the song included highly unpleasant content.
“There is absolutely no excuse for these words,” Fernandez stated. Chelsea Football Club also issued a statement on Wednesday, reiterating its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
“Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities, and identities feel welcome.”
This event is part of a series of racial abuse thrown at French national team players of African heritage, especially striker Kylian Mbappe, following their defeat to Argentina in the 2022 World Cup Final.
It has also overshadowed Argentina’s recent win, in which they defeated Colombia 1-0 in Miami Gardens to claim a record 16th Copa America title.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
