France Federation set to file lawsuit against Argentina FA for alleged racial and discriminatory remarks during their Copa America celebrations
The French Football Federation (FFF) have confirmed that they will be filing a lawsuit against Argentina FA. They are not happy with the chants from the players that were allegedly racist and discriminatory.
Argentina players were on a bus heading to the capital of the South American country after they won the Copa America. Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez went live on social media and the players were beginning to chant:
"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 live video ended abruptly seconds after the chant started.
In a statement released on Tuesday, FFF said that the chant was unacceptable and derogatory. It added that a complaint has been filed with FIFA and said:
"The president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, condemns in the strongest terms the unacceptable racist and discriminatory remarks which were made against the players of the French team in the context of a song sung by players and supporters of the Argentina team after its victory in the Copa America and broadcast in a video on social media.
"Faced with the seriousness of these shocking remarks, contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the president of the FFF decided to directly challenge his Argentine counterpart and FIFA and to file a legal complaint for insulting remarks of a racial and discriminatory nature."
Chelsea investigating Enzo Fernandez video after alleged racist chant
Chelsea have told journalists that they are investigating the video and will be looking into the matter. The Premier League side is yet to release an official statement and is expected to take their time as they talk to Enzo Fernandez.
FIFA, The AFA and CONMEBOL are also yet to comment on the issue. The Athletic reported that it contacted all for a comment but did not get a reply from them.
Similar chants were heard after the 2022 FIFA World Cup in which Argentina defeated France in the final in a penalty shootout.