FIFA Investigates Racist Video
FIFA has launched an investigation into a video showing Argentina national team players singing about France’s players in a way deemed “racist and discriminatory” by the French Football Federation (FFF). The FFF filed a complaint with FIFA, highlighting the racist nature of the song, particularly targeting France striker Kylian Mbappe’s African during Copa America 2024.
The Controversial Video
The video, posted by Argentina forward Enzo Fernandez on Instagram, emerged during the team’s celebrations following their 1-0 victory over Colombia to win the Copa America 2024. In response, a FIFA spokesperson stated, “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.”
Fernandez later apologized on social media, admitting he had gotten “caught up in the euphoria of our celebrations.” He acknowledged the song’s offensive language and apologized for the hurt caused.
Reactions and Defenses
Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana, a teammate of Fernandez, described the video as “uninhibited racism.” Despite this, Argentina’s Vice President Victoria Villarruel defended Fernandez and the team, criticizing what she called the actions of a “colonialist” country. She emphasized Argentina’s sovereignty and denounced any form of intimidation over the song.
Villarruel posted on social media, “No colonialist country is going to intimidate us for a song on the pitch or for telling the truths they don’t want to admit. Argentina is a sovereign and free country. We never had colonies or second-class citizens. We have never imposed our way of life on anyone. But neither will we tolerate that they do it to us … Enzo, I support you, (Lionel) Messi, thanks for everything! Argentinians always hold your head up high.”
Government Actions
Later on Wednesday, the Office of Argentina President Javier Milei announced the dismissal of the country’s undersecretary for sports, Julio Garro. Garro had suggested that Argentina captain Lionel Messi apologize for the chants. The presidential office declared, “The Office of the President informs that no government can tell what to comment, what to think or what to do to the Argentine National Team, World Champion and twice champion of Copa America 2024, or to any other citizen. For this reason, Julio Garro ceases to be Undersecretary of Sports of the nation.”
Chelsea’s Stand
Chelsea, Fernandez’s club, reiterated their stance against discriminatory behavior. The club stated, “We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities, and identities feel welcome. All forms of discriminatory behavior are completely unacceptable.”
Background on Racial Abuse
This incident isn’t isolated. Mbappe and other France players of African descent faced racial abuse on social media after losing to Argentina in the 2022 World Cup final. This prompted a senior French cabinet minister to call on FIFA to investigate the abuse.
The controversy surrounding the racist chants by Argentina players highlights ongoing issues of discrimination in football. With FIFA investigating and Chelsea taking a firm stance, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of combating racism in sports. Argentina’s government actions and public reactions further underscore the complexity and sensitivity surrounding the issue. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
