Anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out has asked FIFA what action, if any, the world football's governing body has taken in relation to the racial row surrounding Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandes last summer.
The Argentina international filmed himself and several of his compatriots singing an obscene chant following the 2024 Copa America final. The lyrics were directed at French footballers of African origin and were condemned as… “Racist and discriminatory” The French Football Federation submitted it in an official complaint to FIFA.
Fernandez issued a Public apology He was the subject of “internal disciplinary action” from Chelsea in July. Once the 2024/25 Premier League season began, the Blues appointed Enzo Maresca as new coach Made Argentine vice-captain.
Kick It Out CEO Samuel Okafor sent a letter to FIFA president Gianni Infantino and his CONMEBOL counterpart, Alejandro Domínguez, raising questions about whether Fernandes will face any consequences, according to a report by FIFA. BBC.
“Despite making inquiries to the FA and FIFA, we and many others have not been told if there has been any investigation or finding into his or any other player's conduct. Establishing the facts and reaching a conclusion should not be an unusual or difficult task.” “For organizations that want to take discrimination seriously,” Okafor wrote.
“On behalf of the many in the football community who are invested in this case, we would be grateful if you could let us know if the investigation is ongoing and when you intend to reach a conclusion.”
“Several players were filmed singing a song to the team coach that was racist and transphobic. Franceplayers. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez was clearly seen singing, although we realize he was not alone in the actions as several players can be heard throughout the video.
“Chelsea He said Fernandez would participate in education to learn from his mistake. However, it is important to note how this incident and how it was dealt with could have affected the wider community in England and globally.”
The Kick It Out message also referred to the punishment imposed on Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur. He was a Uruguay international Charged by the English Football Association After making insulting comments about fellow South Korean Son Heung-min in June – shortly before Fernandes' video.
As Okafor pointed out. Bentancur has been banned For seven matches this season: “You will be aware that Bentancur was recently held accountable by the FA for making discriminatory comments. Many fans have asked us why the Argentine national team has not been held accountable in the same way, and they fear what has happened.” “That means.”
“It is important that we present a united front to address discrimination,” the letter concluded. “Otherwise, the federations’ claims to take action fall at the first hurdle.”
