Argentina's Racist Celebrations: A Shameful Stain on Football's Reputation

The 2024 Copa America should have been a joyous occasion for Argentina, as they lifted their 16th trophy in the prestigious South American football tournament. However, the post-match celebrations quickly turned sour as a video surfaced showing several Argentine players, including midfielder Enzo Fernandez, engaging in a racist and homophobic chant targeting French players, particularly star striker Kylian Mbappé.

The offensive chant, which originated from Argentina fans during the 2022 World Cup, referenced the African heritage of several French players, saying "They play for France, but their parents are from Angola. Their mother is from Cameroon, while their father is from Nigeria. But their passport says French." This shocking display of racism and discrimination has sparked outrage and condemnation from various quarters, including the French Football Federation (FFF) and Chelsea Football Club, Fernandez's current team.

The Players Involved and Their Apologies

Enzo Fernandez, who became the most expensive transfer in Premier League history when he joined Chelsea in 2023, was at the forefront of the controversy. In a live video posted on social media from the team bus, Fernandez and his teammates can be heard singing the offensive chant.

In response to the backlash, Fernandez issued an apology, stating that the chant "includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words." Chelsea, who have launched an internal disciplinary procedure against Fernandez, also condemned the incident, saying, "Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable."

The Backlash and Calls for Action

The French Football Federation (FFF) has strongly condemned the "unacceptable racist and discriminatory remarks" and has filed a complaint with FIFA, calling on the governing body and the Argentine Football Association to address the issue. FFF president Philippe Diallo described the remarks as "shocking" and "contrary to the values of sport and human rights."

French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra also called for FIFA to take action, describing the behaviour as "pathetic" and "unacceptable." Chelsea players, especially the French ones, are reported to be "very angry" with Fernandez and his Argentine teammates.

The incident has also highlighted the ongoing issue of racism in football, with anti-racism association SOS Racisme criticizing similar chants by Argentina fans during the 2022 World Cup as an "expression of a far-right ideology." Footballer Wesley Fofana, a teammate of Fernandez at Chelsea, shared the video with the caption "Football in 2024: racism without a complex," emphasizing the pervasive nature of the problem.

The Importance of Accountability and Education

As FIFA opens an investigation into the incident, it is crucial that the governing body and football associations take decisive action to address racism and discrimination in the sport. Mere apologies are not enough; there must be consequences for such unacceptable behaviour.

Moreover, education and awareness campaigns are essential to combat racism in football. Players, coaches, and fans alike must be educated on the harmful effects of discrimination and the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport.

The racist celebrations by Argentina players after their Copa America victory are a shameful stain on football's reputation. It is a stark reminder that racism remains a pervasive issue in the sport, despite ongoing efforts to combat it. The incident must serve as a wake-up call for football authorities to take stronger action against discrimination and to prioritize education and awareness to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all players and fans.

The Bad Tackle

There is no excuse for racist action. Perpetrators deserve to be condemned for their despicable acts. All reputable organisations should come together come-up with a common stand on how to cope with this virus.

All eyes will be on Chelsea FC as they conduct their internal investigation. After all the protocols and formalities are completed, they need to issue a strong and credible decision addressing the seriousness of the issue.

The governing bodies of football should also update their guidelines. There should only be one response to racism. It should be harsh, it should be decisive, it should be blind to the personalities involved, and it should ensure that lessons are learned. There should be no excuses. This the way!