French Federation Takes Argentina and FIFA to Court Over Discriminatory Comments

The French Football Federation (FFF) has initiated legal action against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and FIFA following the circulation of a video on social media that has been deemed racist and discriminatory. The video, recorded by Argentine player Enzo Fernández during the celebrations for Argentina's Copa América victory, features a chant referencing the origins of French players, which has sparked a strong reaction in France.

The controversy erupted when the video was shared on Enzo Fernández's Instagram account. The French Football Federation, along with Chelsea player Wesley Fofana, swiftly condemned the video's content. In response, Fofana, along with his teammates Malo Gusto and Axel Disasi, unfollowed Fernández on social media in protest.

The president of the FFF, Philippe Diallo, issued a statement strongly condemning the "unacceptable racist and discriminatory comments directed at French national team players." Diallo announced that the FFF would take the Argentine counterpart and FIFA to court, filing a formal complaint over the comments.

France's Minister of Sports, Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, also expressed her outrage on social media, calling the behavior "pathetic" and demanding a response from FIFA.

A French newspaper detailed how Enzo Fernández "conveniently cut his live stream" just before the controversial lyrics were heard, though they clarified that the song and its content were entirely recognizable. In response to the uproar, Fernández posted an apology on his social media, expressing regret for the incident and opposing any form of discrimination.

"I want to sincerely apologize for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team's celebrations. The song includes very offensive language, and there is absolutely no excuse for these words. I stand against discrimination in all its forms and apologize for being caught up in the euphoria of our Copa América celebrations. That video, that moment, those words do not reflect my beliefs or my character," Fernández stated.