Chelsea Midfielder Enzo Fernandez Involved in Controversial Video Celebrating Copa America Victory

Chelsea Football Club has initiated disciplinary proceedings against midfielder Enzo Fernandez following his involvement in a controversial video after Argentina‘s Copa America victory.

The video in question captured members of the Argentina national squad engaging in chants that appeared to target players of African heritage. The incident has garnered the attention of FIFA, which has stated that it is also investigating the matter.

Fernandez, who expressed remorse for his actions, released a statement apologizing for his participation in the video. Chelsea, in response, emphasized that discriminatory behavior is not tolerated within the club.

The celebrations took place in Miami Gardens, Florida, following Argentina’s triumph in the Copa America final. A video posted on social media depicted Fernandez and his teammates chanting about the French national team.

Fernandez’s Chelsea teammate, Wesley Fofana, shared the video on his social media platforms, condemning it as ‘uninhibited racism.’ Fofana, a French defender with ties to Ivory Coast, highlighted the derogatory nature of the chants directed at players of African descent.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has underlined the importance of a zero-tolerance approach to racism in football. In May, FIFA committed to relaunching a task force dedicated to monitoring and addressing instances of discrimination within the sport.

While it remains unclear what specific actions FIFA can take in this case, the governing body has affirmed its condemnation of all forms of discrimination, stressing that such behavior has no place in football.