Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez faces scrutiny from Kick It Out over an alleged racist video from last year, as the anti-discrimination group demands answers from FIFA and Conmebol regarding their investigation into the incident.
The controversy stems from a video posted on social media showing Fernandez and other Argentina squad members singing what was described as a "racist and transphobic" chant about France's black players following their Copa America victory in July. Wesley Fofana, Fernandez's Chelsea teammate and French international, condemned the video as "uninhibited racism."
In a letter addressed to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, obtained by the BBC, Kick It Out's chief executive Samuel Okafor expressed concern over the lack of transparency in the investigation. "Despite making inquiries to the FA and FIFA, we and many others have not been told if there has been any investigation or outcome into his or any other players' conduct," Okafor wrote.
The case draws particular attention when compared to Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur's recent seven-match domestic ban by the FA for using a racial slur against teammate Son Heung-min. While Bentancur's incident fell under FA jurisdiction as it occurred during his personal time, Fernandez's case happened during international duty.
Following the initial controversy, Fernandez, who joined Chelsea for a British record £107m in February 2023, apologized for "getting caught up in the euphoria" of the celebrations, acknowledging the song contained "highly offensive language" that didn't reflect his beliefs or character. Chelsea responded by launching an internal disciplinary procedure and committed to using the incident as an educational opportunity. However, the club later appointed Fernandez as captain in August.
FIFA initially stated they were "aware of a video circulating on social media" and that the incident was "being looked into," emphasizing their strong condemnation of discrimination. However, six months later, Kick It Out's chief has written to both FIFA and Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez seeking clarification on the investigation's status.
The French Football Federation had previously announced their intention to file a complaint to FIFA over the "racist and discriminatory" chant. The BBC reports that the FA has also sought clarification from Conmebol but has received no response.
Okafor warns that if no investigation has taken place, "it points to a deeply concerning lack of transparency and accountability." He emphasized the importance of consistent standards in treating discrimination through accountability and education, referencing Infantino's May 2024 statement about federations taking a global stand against racism.
FIFA and Conmebol have been approached for comment, while both Kick It Out and Chelsea have declined to comment on the matter.
