FIFA probes Copa racist slur

PARIS, France (AFP) — FIFA said on Wednesday it was opening an investigation into racist chants by Argentina players after they won the Copa America.

“FIFA is aware of a video circulating on social media and the incident is being looked into. FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone including players, fans and officials,” a spokesperson for world football’s governing body said.

The chants were heard during a live video posted on social media by Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from the team bus in the wake of the Copa victory over Colombia in Miami on Sunday.

Some players, including Fernandez, sing a chant dating back to the 2022 World Cup final in which Argentina beat France.

The song targets France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe and includes homophobic insults.

The French Football Federation has complained to FIFA about the chants.

Chelsea had earlier announced they had launched an internal disciplinary procedure against Fernandez over the incident.

Fernandez, who is the most expensive transfer in Premier League history, has apologized.

The club said in a statement: “Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behavior completely unacceptable.”

“We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.”