Chelsea and FIFA have launched an investigation following midfielder Enzo Fernandez’s apology for an “offensive” video shared on his Instagram account.
The French Football Federation (FFF) introduced plans to pursue authorized motion, alleging “racially offensive and discriminatory remarks” made by Argentina gamers after their Copa America victory over Colombia.
The controversy arose from footage uploaded by Chelsea midfielder Fernandez, displaying him and his teammates celebrating their 1-0 victory within the closing towards France, accompanied by chants that sparked important backlash.
In response, Fernandez issued a press release Tuesday night by way of Instagram, expressing deep remorse: “I sincerely apologize for the video posted on my Instagram during our national team’s celebrations.”
“The track contains extremely offensive language, and there may be completely no excuse for these phrases.
“I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologize 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. I am truly sorry.”
Fernandez’s French clubmate Wesley Fofana posted the video on his personal social media with the message: “Football in 2024: Uninhibited racism.”
Chelsea launched a press release Wednesday morning welcoming Fernandez’s apology whereas saying disciplinary proceedings. FIFA, soccer’s world governing physique, additionally stated it was investigating.
“Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behavior completely unacceptable,” the assertion learn.
“We are proud to be a various, inclusive membership the place folks from all cultures, communities, and identities really feel welcome.
“We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate. The club has initiated an internal disciplinary procedure.”
A FIFA spokesperson stated, “FIFA is aware of a video circulating on social media, and the incident is under investigation. FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination, including by players, fans, and officials.”
In a press release Tuesday, the French Football Federation (FFF), the governing physique of French soccer, stated its president, Philippe Diallo, would problem FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Argentina Football Association President Claudio Fabian Tapia to reply to the alleged remarks.
The assertion learn: “The president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, condemns within the strongest phrases the unacceptable racist and discriminatory remarks made towards the gamers of the French crew within the context of a track sung by gamers and supporters of the Argentina crew after its victory within the Copa America and broadcast in a video on social media.
“Given the seriousness of these shocking remarks, contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the president of the FFF has decided to directly challenge his Argentine counterpart and FIFA and to file a legal complaint for insulting remarks of a racist and discriminatory nature.”
Argentina defeated France in a penalty shootout within the 2022 World Cup closing, throughout which some Argentina crew supporters have been heard singing discriminatory songs.
Source: www.dailysabah.com