Oscar J Jeke
Zim Now Reporter
Argentina's jubilant Copa America victory celebrations have been tarnished by a video showcasing discriminatory chants targeting French players of African descent. The incident has triggered a lawsuit from the French Football Federation and widespread condemnation.
The offensive chants surfaced through a social media video posted by Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, featuring himself and other Argentinian teammates celebrating on their victory bus.
The lyrics, translated to English, mock the heritage of French players: "They play for France, but their parents are from Angola. Their mother is from Cameroon, while their father is from Nigeria. But their passports say French."
Fernandez, facing a wave of criticism, has apologized on Instagram, claiming the chants arose from the celebratory euphoria and did not reflect his true feelings. The FFF president, Philippe Diallo, reacted swiftly, denouncing the racist and discriminatory behavior of both Argentinian players and supporters.
The FFF's condemnation wasn't limited to words. They filed a lawsuit against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and FIFA, citing racial and discriminatory abuse. The statement released by the FFF emphasizes the seriousness of the incident and its violation of sporting values and human rights.
Fernandez's club, Chelsea FC, has launched an investigation into the matter. The club maintains a zero-tolerance policy for racism and strongly advocates for inclusivity and diversity.
The incident also created a rift within the Chelsea locker room. Football journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that French players, Axel Disasi, Wesley Fofana, and Malo Gusto, took offense to Fernandez's involvement and unfollowed him on social media. Fofana further criticized the behavior, calling it "uninhibited racism" in a social media post.
This incident follows recent comments by Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho, who highlighted the lack of competitiveness in African teams at major tournaments due to the influx of African-origin players representing European nations like England, Portugal, and France.
While the specific punishment for Argentina's actions remains unclear, past examples offer some insight. Fans who racially abused Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid faced prison sentences, stadium bans, and hefty fines.
The incident serves as a stark reminder that racism continues to cast a shadow over football. Argentina's celebratory chants expose deep-seated prejudices that demand swift and decisive action. The lawsuit and widespread condemnation offer a glimmer of hope that such discriminatory behavior will not be tolerated.
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