FIFA Launches Probe Into Argentina's Players Racist Chants

FIFA has launched an investigation into the racist chants by Argentina players following their Copa America victory.

"FIFA is aware of a video circulating on social media and the incident is being looked into," a spokesperson for world football's governing body said.

Further, they stated: "FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone including players, fans and officials."

The cries were heard during a live video shared on social media by Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from the team bus following their Copa America victory over Colombia in Miami on Sunday.

Some players, including 23-year-old Fernandez, sing a chant from the 2022 World Cup final, in which Argentina defeated France.

France's star striker Kylian Mbappe, among others, was the target of the racist and homophobic chants.

Chelsea had already declared that they have initiated an internal disciplinary action against Fernandez in response to the incident.

Fernandez apologized, and the club said that an "internal disciplinary procedure" had been initiated.

"Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behavior completely unacceptable," it added.

"We acknowledge and appreciate our player's public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate."

Fernandez, who joined Chelsea from Benfica for a Premier League record sum of £105 million ($136.8 million) in 2023, stated in his apology: "The song contains 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."

Javier Mascherano, the coach of Argentina's Olympic football squad, defended Fernandez, claiming that the video had been "taken out of context."

"Argentines, if there's one thing we're not, it's racists, far from that," said Mascherano.

"I know Enzo, he's a great guy. He doesn't have any problems like that," insisted the former Liverpool and Barcelona midfielder.

"Often, as part of a celebration, you may grab a video segment and remove it from context.

"If there's one thing we are as a country, it's a totally inclusive country. People from all over the world live in Argentina, and we treat them as they should be treated."