Wesley Fofana Calls Out ‘Racist and Discriminatory’ Chant in Video Posted by Enzo Fernandez
Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana has publicly condemned a video shared by his teammate Enzo Fernandez, which features the Argentina national team singing what has been described as a ‘racist and discriminatory’ chant. The video, captioned by Fofana as ‘Football in 2024: uninhibited racism,’ has sparked significant controversy.
Le football en 2024 : racisme décomplexé 🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️ pic.twitter.com/MGkH5wPmNU
— Wesley Fofana (@Wesley_Fofana3) July 16, 2024
Background of the Incident
The video shows the Argentina squad celebrating their recent Copa America victory, but the content of their chant has drawn sharp criticism. The French Football Federation (FFF) has labeled the chant as ‘racist and discriminatory,’ announcing their intention to pursue legal action against the Argentine Football Association (AFA).
FFF’s Response
In a press release, FFF President Philippe Diallo condemned the remarks made in the chant:
“The president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, strongly condemns the unacceptable racist and discriminatory comments made against the players of the French team as part of a song sung by players and supporters of the Argentine team after their victory in Copa America and broadcast in a video on social networks.
Faced with the seriousness of these shocking remarks, contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the president of the FFF decided to directly challenge his Argentine counterpart and FIFA and to file a legal complaint for insulting remarks of a racial and discriminatory nature.”
Chelsea’s Investigation
Chelsea Football Club is conducting its own investigation into the incident, given that Fernandez, who filmed and posted the video, is a member of their squad. The video was swiftly removed from Instagram, but not before it had caused significant backlash.
The Chant’s Content
The controversial chant reportedly first emerged during the 2022 World Cup, following Argentina’s victory over France in the final. The song derogatorily claims that French players are ‘all from Angola,’ with ‘Nigerian mothers’ and ‘Cameroonian fathers,’ comments that have been widely criticized for their racial insensitivity.
Immediate Consequences
Enzo Fernandez is currently on a break following Argentina’s Copa America triumph and is expected to return to Chelsea for pre-season training soon. The fallout from this incident may influence his reception and the club’s internal handling of the matter.
Implications and Next Steps
This incident underscores ongoing issues of racism and discrimination in football, highlighting the need for continued efforts to promote inclusivity and respect within the sport. Both the FFF’s legal action and Chelsea’s internal investigation will be closely watched as they unfold.
Enzo has finally issued an appology on his remarks
Wesley Fofana Calls Out ‘Racist and Discriminatory’ Chant in Video Posted by Enzo Fernandez
