The victory of the Argentina national team in the Copa America final was overshadowed by controversy following the emergence of a video showing the players singing a racist chant. Enzo Fernandez, a midfielder, captured the post-match celebrations on Instagram, in which members of the squad were heard singing a notorious song that originated before the 2022 World Cup Final against France.
In spite of their 1-0 victory against Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium, the video posted by Fernandez has stirred a wave of condemnation. The song includes derogatory references to the nationalities and personal lives of opposing players, resulting in widespread criticism from the public and football fans.
The Chelsea midfielder had been recording the celebrations before Argentina’s players started singing the offensive song. However, he promptly ended the Instagram live stream seconds after the racist chant began, possibly aware of the potential backlash it could provoke.
The incident has sparked a strong reaction on social media, with many expressing their disgust at the team’s behaviour. The video, which has been viewed over one million times, has been widely condemned, with some criticising the players for their disrespectful conduct.
While the Argentine football federation has yet to address the video, the incident has raised concerns about the prevalence of racism in football and the responsibilities of players and teams to address such issues. Amid the ongoing calls for action and accountability, the controversy has highlighted the need for greater awareness and education to combat racism in the sport.
The incident has also sparked discussions about the treatment of players from diverse backgrounds, particularly in the international football arena. With a number of black players in both the French and Colombian teams, the offensive chant has emphasized the need for greater sensitivity and respect towards players of different ethnicities.
As the fallout from the controversial video continues to unfold, the Argentina national team and its players are facing increasing scrutiny. With the upcoming return of Fernandez to his club, Chelsea, the incident could have broader implications for the player’s reputation and standing within the football community.
In the aftermath of the Copa America celebrations, the contentious episode serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address and confront racism in football. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibility of players, teams, and football organisations to tackle discrimination and promote inclusivity within the sport.
The incident involving the Argentina national team has highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated effort to combat racism, both on and off the football pitch. As the footballing community grapples with the aftermath of the controversial video, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the work that remains to be done to eradicate racism from the sport.