French footballer Hugo Lloris has expressed his dismay over a controversial song sung by Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez and some of his Argentine teammates. The chant, which has been described as containing racist and discriminatory language, was posted on social media by Fernandez, leading to potential sanctions. The former Les Bleus skipper has lambasted the song, calling it “a proper attack on French people” and highlighting the need for Argentina players to set a better example for young fans.
The incident dates back to the 2022 World Cup final in which Argentina emerged victorious over France. The video appears to question the heritage of players in France’s squad, making insulting references about their African origins. Lloris has vehemently opposed the nature of the song, emphasizing the responsibility of winners to demonstrate respect, particularly as role models for younger generations. He stressed the inappropriateness of such discriminatory acts, standing firmly against racism and discrimination in football.
Fernandez has since issued an apology for the video, attributing his actions to the euphoria of winning the title, while asserting that the derogatory sentiments expressed do not align with his personal beliefs. The Football Association and FIFA are both investigating the matter, with potential consequences for those involved. The French defender, Wesley Fofana, also denounced the video, condemning it as “uninhibited racism”, further contributing to the controversy.
While Fernandez’s actions have received criticism from within his own team, some of Chelsea’s French players have distanced themselves from him on social media. Additionally, former players and football icons have spoken both for and against the incident, underscoring the heated debate surrounding the matter. The President of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, has labelled the video as “racist and discriminatory”, ensuring legal repercussions for its dissemination.
The aftermath of the contentious chant has ignited passionate discussions and spirited responses, both in support and opposition. Argentine vice-president Victoria Villarruel has defended her country’s actions, maintaining that the song’s sentiment is rooted in truth and refusing to concede ground to colonial criticisms. This has created a divide in opinion, with some advocating for understanding cultural nuances, while others firmly denounce any form of discrimination.
Overall, the incident has raised pertinent questions about respect, responsibility, and cultural sensitivity in football. It serves as a reminder of the significance of representation and the impact that actions, especially from public figures, have on society. As the investigation continues and the discussions unfold, it remains to be seen what measures will be taken and what lessons will be learned from this contentious episode.