Chelsea open disciplinary proceedings against Enzo Fernandez over ‘racist’ chanting
Chelsea have confirmed they have ‘instigated an internal disciplinary procedure’ after Enzo Fernandez filmed he and Argentina teammates chanting a racist song.
Fernandez posted a video online of himself plus several Argentina colleagues singing an offensive chant aimed at France players with African heritage in the aftermath of Sunday’s Copa America final win against Colombia. The song first originated at the 2022 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and France.
Blues defender Wesley Fofana called out Fernandez’s actions on X, formerly Twitter, while several other Chelsea teammates unfollowed the midfielder on Instagram.
A statement from Fernandez read: “I want to apologise sincerely for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team celebrations. The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words. I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise 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.”
Fofana criticised Fernandez for ‘uninhibited racism’ / Jean Catuffe/GettyImages
Chelsea also released a club statement on Wednesday morning, which read: “Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.
“We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.
“The Club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure.”
Source: 90mins
