Enzo Fernandez has been found guilty of failing to provide information to the police in connection with an incident involving a Porsche Cayenne allegedly running a red light in Wales last November. The incident occurred in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, and Fernandez was accused of being the driver of the vehicle and driving without insurance on the same day. Although no plea was entered for those charges and they were withdrawn, Fernandez was convicted of failing to provide information to Dyfed-Powys Police regarding the incident on 27 December.
The verdict was delivered at a hearing at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court, and Fernandez is scheduled to be sentenced on 11 September. The magistrates adjourned the sentencing hearing to consider mitigating circumstances for not disqualifying Fernandez from driving.
This development comes shortly after a video emerged of Fernandez and his Argentina team-mates singing a chant containing “racist and transphobic” language. The incident has sparked controversy, prompting Fernandez to issue an apology and Chelsea Football Club to launch an investigation. In response to the video, the French FA have also filed a legal complaint.
Responding to the controversy, Chelsea Football Club issued a statement condemning discriminatory behaviour and reaffirming their commitment to being a diverse and inclusive club. They have also initiated an internal disciplinary procedure.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion and backlash, with Fernandez’s club team-mate, Wesley Fofana, publicly criticizing the actions of Fernandez and his Argentina team-mates on social media.
The aftermath of these events has, however, been overshadowed by Fernandez’s absence from the sentencing hearing as he celebrates Argentina’s Copa America win.
In summary, the recent events involving Enzo Fernandez have prompted legal and disciplinary action, as well as sparking a broader conversation about discriminatory behaviour in football. The repercussions of these developments are likely to have a lasting impact on the football community and beyond.