'I'm truly sorry': Argentina's Copa America celebrations rocked as video of racist chant emerges
The French Football Federation (FFF) has pledged to lodge a complaint with FIFA over "racist and discriminatory remarks" made by Argentinian players following the team's Copa America victory.
Argentina claimed their 16th Copa America title on Monday (AEST) after defeating Columbia 1-0 in extra time.
A video was posted on social media by Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez on Monday (AEST) post-match of players appearing to chant about French players with African heritage on the team bus.
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The same chants - sung by Argentina fans - emerged prior to Argentina's 2022 World Cup final victory over France.
Chelsea defender and teammate of Fernandez, Wesley Fofana, described the video as "uninhibited racism."
Fofana, who has family ties to the Ivory Coast, is among several players at Chelsea who have been impacted by the video.
Chelsea teammates Axel Disasi and Malo Gusto joined Fofana and have unfollowed Fernandez on Instagram.
Fernandez later apologised for the song featured in the video, which includes homophobic insults and racist remarks.
Enzo Fernandez celebrates with the trophy after the Copa America final. Getty
"The song included highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words," the 23-year-old Argentina star said on Instagram.
"I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise for getting caught up in the euphoria of our celebrations.
"That video, that moment, those words, do no reflect my beliefs or my character. I'm truly sorry."
FFF president Philippe Diallo said he "condemns the unacceptable racist and discriminatory remarks" made against French players.
"Given the seriousness of these shocking remarks, which are contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the FFF president has decided to contact its Argentinian counterpart and FIFA directly to file a legal complaint for racist and discriminatory remarks," the French Federation wrote in a statement.
French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera called for FIFA to take further action.
"Pathetic. Behaviour all the more unacceptable because it is repeated," Oudea-Castera wrote on X.
"FIFA: a reaction?"
Argentina celebrates after winning the 2024 Copa America title with a 1-0 victory over Colombia in extra time. Getty
FIFA has yet to confirm if the French complaint has been lodged.
The sports governing body and the Argentinian Football Association did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Chelsea released a statement on Wednesday confirming it is investigating the incident.
"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," the satatement said.
"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."
