Anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out has asked FIFA what, if any, action the world football governing body has taken in relation to the racism row surrounding Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez last summer.
The Argentina international filmed himself and some of his compatriots singing a disgusting song after the Copa America 2024 final. The lyrics were aimed at French footballers of African heritage and were condemned as “racist and discriminatory” by France's football association in an official complaint to FIFA.
Fernandez released one public apology and was subject to an “internal disciplinary procedure” by Chelsea in July. As the 2024/25 Premier League season has just begun, new Blues coach Enzo Maresca made the Argentinian vice-captain.
Kick It Out chief executive Samuel Okafor sent a letter to FIFA president Gianni Infantino and his South American confederation counterpart, CONMEBOL, Alejandro Dominguez, questioning whether Fernandez will face any consequences, according to a report from BBC.
“Despite making inquiries to the FA and FIFA, we and many others have not been told whether there has been any investigation or outcome into his or any other player's conduct. Determining the facts and reaching a conclusion need not be an overwhelming or difficult task. for organizations that want to take discrimination seriously,” Okafor wrote.
“On behalf of many of the football community who are invested in this case, we would appreciate it if you could let us know if an investigation is underway and when you intend to reach an outcome.
“Some of the players were filmed singing a song to the team coach which was both racist and transphobic. Francethe players Midfielder Enzo Fernandez was clearly seen singing, though we understand he wasn't alone in those actions as multiple players can be heard during the video.
“Chelsea said Fernandez would participate in education to learn from his mistake. However, it is important to note how this incident and its handling would have affected the wider community both in England and around the world.”
The Kick It Out letter also revealed the punishment handed down to Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur. The representative of Uruguay was charged by the English Football Association after making disparaging comments about his South Korean teammate Son Heung-min in June — not long before Fernandez's video.
As Okafor pointed out, Bentancur was stopped for seven games this season: “You will be aware that Bentancur has recently been held accountable by the FA for discriminatory comments. Many fans have asked us why the Argentina team have not been held accountable in the same way and fear what this means.”
“It is vital that we present a united front to tackle discrimination,” the letter concluded. “Otherwise, claims by the federations that action is being taken fall at the first hurdle.”