Racism Row Rocks Argentina’s Copa America Celebrations
Argentina’s party after winning the 2024 Copa America has been short-lived, as the national team is under fire for allegations of racism. The controversy surrounds a live video shared by midfielder Enzo Fernandez on his Instagram, which captured a derogatory song being sung by teammates on the team bus. The lyrics, which target African players, have sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability.
The video has also raised questions about the involvement of team captain Lionel Messi, who is not seen in the clip alongside his teammates. However, fellow midfielder Rodrigo De Paul claimed that Messi had told the team not to taunt the opposition after they won the final on Sunday.
But does this excuse the behavior of Fernandez and his teammates? "They play for France, but their parents are from Angola. Their mother is from Cameroon, while their father is from Nigeria. But their passport says French," the song goes. This kind of racism is unacceptable in any form, and it’s imperative that the Argentine Football Association takes swift and decisive action to address the issue.
Fernandez’s clubmate, French footballer Wesley Fofana, has also weighed in on the situation. "Uninhibited racism," he tweeted, calling out his teammate’s behavior. The France Football Association (FFF) has also issued a statement condemning the video and has promised to file an official complaint with FIFA.
The argument that this is just "part of football culture" doesn’t cut it. As Enzo Fernandez’s father, Raul, admitted, his son didn’t even realize what he was singing at the time. But that’s no excuse. Racism is never justifiable, and it’s on the Argentine Football Association to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
The FFF’s challenge to FIFA and the Argentine Football Association to address the issue is a welcome development. We need to see concrete action, not just words. The global football community must stand together against racism, and any form of discrimination.
What do you think? Should the Argentine Football Association take stronger action against Enzo Fernandez and his teammates? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
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