French Soccer Federation to File Complaint with FIFA Over Racist Chants by Argentina Players

The French soccer federation announced on Tuesday its intention to file a complaint with FIFA regarding alleged "racist and discriminatory remarks" made by Argentina players in post-match celebrations following their Copa América victory. Argentina secured a 1-0 win against Colombia in Miami Gardens, Florida, and a video shared by midfielder Enzo Fernandez has drawn significant attention for its content, which appears to mock French players of African descent. Wesley Fofana, a defender for Chelsea and a member of the French national team, criticized the video on social media, labeling it as "uninhibited racism." Fofana, who has Ivorian heritage, highlighted the ongoing issue of racism in soccer, particularly as similar chants were heard from Argentina fans during the World Cup final two years ago, which Argentina won. The French federation's statement emphasized the seriousness of the remarks, which they argue contradict the values of sport and human rights. Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), condemned the chants and expressed his commitment to addressing the issue directly with his Argentine counterpart and FIFA. Diallo, who is also a member of UEFA's executive committee, has been vocal about the need for accountability in soccer. FIFA has yet to confirm the receipt of the complaint but has previously stated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards racism in the sport.