Fernandez Faces Disciplinary Action Over Alleged Racist Chant.
Chelsea have initiated disciplinary proceedings against midfielder Enzo Fernandez following a video he posted on social media, which the French Football Federation (FFF) claims includes an alleged “racist and discriminatory” chant.
On Tuesday, the FFF announced it would file a complaint with world governing body Fifa over the video, which features a song sung by some members of the Argentina squad about France’s black players. Fernandez’s Chelsea team-mate Wesley Fofana, who has one cap for France, described the video on Instagram as “uninhibited racism.”
Fernandez, a £107m British record signing in February 2023, expressed remorse for the video, which he posted while celebrating Argentina’s Copa America victory. “The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words,” said Fernandez. “I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise for getting caught up in the euphoria of our Copa America celebrations. That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character.”
Chelsea, which has seven black or mixed-race French players in their first-team squad, acknowledged Fernandez’s apology and stated they would use this as an opportunity for education. “The club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure,” read a Chelsea statement.
Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out deemed the video “unacceptable” and expressed full support for Fofana. “Several players are seen singing the song, which means there will be a wider impact on team-mates and fans at other clubs,” the charity stated. “Responses to these incidents cannot start and end with an apology. More important is the action taken afterwards to ensure players are educated and held accountable, both in England and on a global scale.”
The FFF plans to contact the Argentine Football Association (AFA) about the live video posted by Fernandez after Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final. FFF president Philippe Diallo condemned the remarks in the strongest terms, stating they were “contrary to the values of sport and human rights” and announced plans to appeal to his Argentine counterpart and Fifa, as well as to file a legal complaint.
A Fifa spokesperson confirmed they were aware of the video and that the incident is under investigation. “Fifa strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone, including players, fans, and officials,” the spokesperson said.
Chelsea reiterated their stance against discriminatory behaviour, stating, “We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities, and identities feel welcome.”
The Argentine FA has been approached for comment but has yet to respond.
BBC
