Argentina Apologizes to France Amid Football-Chant Row
[Image: Argentina captain Lionel Messi]
Argentina’s vice president, Victoria Villarruel, sparked a diplomatic row with France after calling the European country "colonialist" and its people "hypocrites" in a heated argument over alleged racist chants by Argentine footballers. But now, the Argentine government has apologized to France, and it’s about time.
The Chants in Question
The controversy surrounds a video posted by Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez, 23, after Argentina won the Copa America. The chant, which targets France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe among others, includes racist and homophobic insults. Fernandez has apologized, but Chelsea has launched an internal disciplinary procedure against him. The French Football Federation (FFF) has also complained to FIFA.
Villarruel’s Controversial Statement
Villarruel took to social media to express her support for Fernandez, saying, "No colonialist country is going to intimidate us because of a stadium chant nor for speaking truths that they do not want to admit. Enough with feigned outrage, hypocrites." Her statement was met with widespread criticism, and the Argentine government was forced to intervene.
A Diplomatic Incident
The incident comes just days before Argentine President Javier Milei is due to travel to Paris to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. Despite the controversy, the Argentine government has assured that diplomatic relations with France remain intact. However, the incident has sparked a heated debate about racism and discrimination in football.
What’s Next?
The FIFA investigation into the chants is ongoing, and it’s unclear what penalties, if any, will be imposed on the Argentine players involved. In the meantime, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater awareness and action against racism in football.
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